Orioles Star Zach Eflin Likely to Make Return to Mound in Finale Against Angels

The Baltimore Orioles have been making waves this season, and much of their success has been attributed to the consistency and depth of their pitching staff. With standout performances from pitchers like Kyle Gibson and Dean Kremer, the Orioles have shown a solid pitching rotation that has propelled them to the top of the American League East. One of the most anticipated returns to the mound for Baltimore is the likely return of Zach Eflin, a key player who had been sidelined but is now expected to make his return in the season finale against the Los Angeles Angels.

Eflin, whose journey with the Orioles has been filled with promise, has been recovering from an injury that kept him out of action for several weeks. However, the latest reports indicate that he is poised to make his return to the mound in a critical game against the Angels. This game marks an important moment for the Orioles as they head into the final stretch of the regular season, with playoff aspirations on the line. The significance of Eflin’s return cannot be overstated, as his presence in the rotation will offer the Orioles a much-needed boost as they look to finish strong and secure a postseason spot.

Before diving into the specifics of his return, it’s important to understand Zach Eflin’s journey leading up to his time with the Orioles. Eflin, who was originally drafted by the San Diego Padres in 2012, has spent the majority of his career with the Philadelphia Phillies. Known for his solid command, control, and a sharp breaking ball, Eflin made a name for himself as a reliable mid-rotation starter. His tenure in Philadelphia was marked by flashes of brilliance mixed with periods of inconsistency, but he was generally seen as a pitcher with untapped potential.

In the offseason prior to the 2024 season, the Orioles identified Eflin as a pitcher who could help solidify their rotation. After a series of talks, the two sides agreed to a deal that brought Eflin to Baltimore. The move was seen as a win for both the Orioles and Eflin. For Baltimore, it was an opportunity to add a seasoned arm to a young, dynamic pitching staff. For Eflin, it was a chance to rejuvenate his career and become a key contributor for a team with playoff aspirations.

From the start of his tenure with the Orioles, Eflin impressed. He quickly became a fixture in the starting rotation, working efficiently with the team’s defense and providing a level of stability that was vital to the team’s early success. His ability to pitch deep into games and minimize walks made him a valuable asset, especially in an era where bullpen usage is often a point of concern for many teams.

However, just as it seemed like Eflin was beginning to hit his stride, injury struck. In late May, Eflin suffered a right knee injury that forced him to the injured list. The injury came at an unfortunate time, as the Orioles were in the midst of a tight race for the division lead. The absence of Eflin left a hole in the rotation, and the team had to rely on its younger arms to fill the gap.

Injuries are an inevitable part of the game, but they can have a profound impact on a team’s season. For the Orioles, losing Eflin for an extended period was a tough blow. The team had already been relying heavily on their bullpen, which, while effective, could only provide so much depth. The loss of Eflin meant that the Orioles had to adjust their rotation, and while other pitchers stepped up in his absence, it was clear that his presence was sorely missed.

During his time on the injured list, the Orioles pitching staff showed resilience. Young arms like Grayson Rodriguez and Tyler Wells continued to develop and contribute, but the absence of a steady veteran presence like Eflin was palpable. The team’s rotation was stretched thin, and there were several games where the lack of a consistent starting option led to bullpen games or early exits from starters.

One of the biggest concerns for the Orioles during this stretch was the inconsistency in the back end of the rotation. While Gibson and Kremer provided stability at the top of the rotation, there was a noticeable drop-off when the ball was handed to the No. 4 or 5 starters. This inconsistency resulted in a few tough losses, and the pressure on the bullpen increased as the season wore on. With Eflin sidelined, the Orioles found themselves in a difficult position, but they continued to fight, staying within striking distance of the playoffs.

Now, as the Orioles head into their season finale against the Los Angeles Angels, Eflin’s return to the mound is highly anticipated. The timing of his return is crucial, as the Orioles look to make a final push toward securing a postseason berth. With just a few games remaining in the regular season, every win matters, and having Eflin back in the rotation gives the team a boost they desperately need.

Reports suggest that Eflin has made significant progress in his recovery, and he has been throwing bullpen sessions without any issues. While he has not yet faced live hitters, the Orioles are confident that he will be able to step back into the rotation with minimal rust. Eflin’s familiarity with the team’s pitching philosophy and the catcher’s staff will also help him transition smoothly back into game action.

The Angels, who have had their own struggles this season, are not an easy opponent, especially with players like Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout leading their lineup. However, with Eflin’s experience and command on the mound, the Orioles are hopeful that he can give them a strong outing in what could be a pivotal game.

As the season comes to a close, the Orioles find themselves in a race for the Wild Card spots in the American League. The competition is fierce, and every game counts. With Eflin back in the rotation, the Orioles not only improve their chances of winning the finale against the Angels but also gain confidence heading into the postseason. A strong start from Eflin would not only help the Orioles secure a victory but also provide a morale boost for the rest of the team.

Eflin’s ability to pitch deep into games and limit damage will be key. The Orioles have relied on their bullpen heavily this season, and while the bullpen has performed admirably, having a starting pitcher who can go six or more innings would allow the bullpen to stay fresh for the playoff push. The return of Eflin adds depth to an already solid pitching staff, making the team’s chances of success in the postseason much greater.

Moreover, Eflin’s experience in big-game situations cannot be overlooked. Having pitched in the playoffs with the Phillies in previous seasons, Eflin understands the pressure of high-stakes games. His ability to remain calm and focused in such moments will be invaluable as the Orioles look to make their own playoff run. His leadership on the mound, both in terms of his pitching style and his presence in the clubhouse, will undoubtedly play a role in the team’s success down the stretch.

As Eflin prepares for his return, Orioles fans can expect a pitcher who is eager to prove himself after a lengthy absence. While it’s uncertain how sharp he will be in his first outing back, there is little doubt that Eflin’s stuff—his ability to command his fastball and curveball—will be a significant asset to the team. If he can shake off any rust and regain the form that made him a key contributor earlier in the season, he could be a difference-maker for the Orioles in the final days of the regular season and into the playoffs.

Ultimately, Eflin’s return is a reminder of the unpredictability of baseball. Injuries are a part of the game, but the resilience of both the player and the team can turn adversity into an opportunity. For the Orioles, Eflin’s return is more than just a chance to bolster their rotation—it’s a signal of their commitment to competing at the highest level. With the postseason on the horizon, the Orioles are poised to make a deep run, and Zach Eflin’s return could be a key factor in their success.

As the Orioles head into their final game against the Angels, all eyes will be on Eflin as he takes the mound. With a playoff berth hanging in the balance, the pressure is on, but for Eflin, this is an opportunity to show just how much he means to this team.