Orioles’ Zach Eflin back on Injured List; Young to Start
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Baltimore, Maryland – The Baltimore Orioles face pitching adjustments as right-hander Zach Eflin lands on the injured list for the second time this season. This news comes as a setback for the team as they navigate through the 2025 season.
Young Recalled; rotation Shift
Brandon Young has been recalled from Triple-A Norfolk and is slated to start Tuesday’s game against the Texas Rangers. Originally, Charlie Morton was scheduled to pitch, but his start has been moved to Friday against the Atlanta Braves.
Eflin’s Injury details
Eflin’s recent struggles culminated in his removal after just one inning against the Tampa Bay Rays on Saturday. He reported lower back tightness, leading to his injured list designation for “lower back discomfort.” In that single inning, he surrendered four runs on five hits, including a home run to Jonathan Aranda, throwing only 28 pitches as the Rays triumphed 11-3.
Season Turmoil for Eflin
After a promising start to the season, Eflin initially went on the injured list on April 9 with a low-grade lat strain.Upon his return on May 11, he secured a win against the Los Angeles Angels, bringing his ERA to an extraordinary 3.13.
However, in his subsequent eight starts, Eflin’s ERA has surged to 5.95. His last three appearances have been particularly challenging, with 17 earned runs allowed on 27 hits and six home runs across nine innings.
Eflin is set to become a free agent at the end of the 2025 season,adding uncertainty to his future with the Orioles.
Young Returns to Face Rangers
Young, with a 0-2 record and a 7.11 ERA, was previously recalled on June 25 and started against the Rangers, where he allowed four earned runs in four innings, including a three-run home run by Josh Jung. After that game, he was optioned back to Triple-A Norfolk. now, he’s back to face the Rangers once again.
Did You Know? Prior to 2023, MLB teams could only carry a maximum of 13 pitchers on their active roster. This rule change impacts how teams manage pitching injuries and workload.
Orioles Pitching Stats Comparison
| Pitcher | ERA | recent Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Zach Eflin | 5.95 | Struggled in last 3 appearances |
| Brandon Young | 7.11 | Allowed 4 earned runs in last start |
| Charlie Morton | (Stats from previous seasons vary) | Next start pushed to Friday |
Understanding Pitcher Injuries and Recovery
Pitcher injuries are a constant concern in baseball, impacting team performance significantly. Lower back issues,like the one affecting Eflin,can stem from the repetitive twisting and high-velocity motions involved in pitching. Recovery often involves rest, physical therapy, and gradual reconditioning to prevent recurrence.
Pro tip: Many pitchers now incorporate specialized training programs that focus on core strength and adaptability to minimize the risk of back injuries and improve overall performance. Consider following these exercises to improve your baseball swing and avoid lower back injuries.
The Impact of Free agency on Pitcher Performance
The impending free agency of players like Eflin often adds another layer of complexity. Players may feel added pressure to perform well, potentially leading to changes in their approach or even increased risk of injury. Teams must balance the player’s long-term health with their immediate needs on the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Was Zach Eflin Placed On The Injured List? Zach Eflin was placed on the injured list due to lower back discomfort.
- Who Is Taking Eflin’s Spot In The Rotation? Brandon Young was recalled and will start in place of Eflin.
- What Impact does The Zach Eflin Injury Have On The Baltimore Orioles? The Zach Eflin injury forces the Orioles to shuffle their pitching rotation and rely on younger talent.
- How Long Is Zach Eflin Expected To Be Out? The exact timeline for Zach Eflin’s return is currently unknown and will depend on his recovery progress.
- When Did Zach Eflin Return from His Last Injury? Zach Eflin returned from a previous lat strain on May 11.
What are your thoughts on the Orioles’ pitching situation? How will this injury impact their season? Share your comments below!
