### Orioles Re-Sign Zach Eflin: A Strategic Move After a Challenging Season The Baltimore Orioles have made a significant decision by re-signing right-handed pitcher Zach Eflin to a one-year contract valued at $10 million. Eflin, who was acquired from Tampa Bay during the 2024 season, had a mixed performance in 2025, finishing with a 6-5 record and a 5.93 ERA due to injuries. Despite these challenges, the Orioles are optimistic about his potential contributions moving forward. The contract includes a $5 million salary for 2026, a $3 million signing bonus, and a mutual option for 2027, which can be bought out for $2 million. This move reflects the Orioles' commitment to bolstering their pitching staff as they prepare for the upcoming season [https://apnews.com/article/zach-eflin-baltimore-orioles-06cbed00423f2c30979937a1e0c509dd]. ### Breakdown of the Contract and Its Implications 1. **Contract Details**: - Eflin's contract is worth **$10 million** for one year. - It includes a **$5 million salary** for 2026 and a **$3 million signing bonus**. - A **mutual option for 2027** is included, with a **$2 million buyout** [https://heavy.com/sports/mlb/baltimore-orioles/orioles-reach-contract-agreement-starter-zach-eflin]. 2. **Performance Context**: - Eflin's 2025 season was marred by injuries, leading to a **5.93 ERA** and a **6-5 record**. - His performance in the latter part of the 2024 season was more promising, which likely influenced the Orioles' decision to retain him [https://www.camdenchat.com/baltimore-orioles-news/63351/orioles-news-zach-eflin-signed]. 3. **Future Considerations**: - The mutual option for 2027 can increase in value based on Eflin's performance, specifically if he makes **15, 20, or 25 starts** in 2026, potentially raising the buyout to **$7 million** [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/orioles_re_sign_zach_eflin/s1_13237_43258675]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **2025 Season Performance**: - **Record**: 6 wins, 5 losses - **ERA**: 5.93 - **Contract Breakdown**: - **2026 Salary**: $5 million - **Signing Bonus**: $3 million - **Mutual Option Buyout**: $2 million (potentially increasing to $7 million based on performance metrics) [https://www.wmar2news.com/sports/baseball/orioles/orioles-re-sign-pitcher-zach-eflin-to-one-year-deal-for-2026-season]. ### Conclusion: A Calculated Risk for Future Gains In summary, the Baltimore Orioles' decision to re-sign Zach Eflin is a calculated risk aimed at enhancing their pitching rotation. The contract's structure, which includes performance incentives, reflects a strategic approach to player management. 1. **Re-signing Eflin** allows the Orioles to retain a pitcher with prior success, despite a challenging recent season. 2. **The financial terms** of the contract provide flexibility and potential for increased investment based on performance. 3. **Overall**, this move indicates the Orioles' commitment to building a competitive team as they look ahead to the 2026 season [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/orioles-sign-zach-eflin-1-022844963.html].