Spring training showed promise for Zach Eflin, as he delivered 7 1/3 scoreless innings across two appearances before an injury interrupted his progress.

Eflin’s season debut on March 31 against Texas featured seven strikeouts and one earned run over 3 2/3 innings before he exited with elbow concerns.

Following that strong March 31 outing, Eflin underwent Tommy John surgery on his 32nd birthday, effectively ending his season.

Dr. Keith Meister performed the procedure after a second medical opinion on Eflin’s right elbow.

The Orioles announced the season-ending procedure and outlined an expected 2027 return timeline for Eflin.

Eflin’s injury and surgery are framed within a broader Orioles roster update, with emphasis on his outlook for 2027.

Baltimore had recently re-signed Eflin to a one-year, $10 million contract with a $25 million mutual option for 2027, plus a $2 million buyout, aiming to anchor the rotation.

In other Orioles news, outfielder Tyler O’Neill was placed on the seven-day concussion injured list, and Johnathan Rodríguez was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk.

O’Neill’s status is positioned as dealing with illnesses and dehydration, with Rodríguez stepping in to fill a roster spot.

Eflin described his elbow discomfort as a “hamstring cramp in my elbow,” stressing a quick and thorough rehab to return stronger.

Across his career, Eflin owns a 68-67 record with a 4.28 ERA in 201 big-league appearances, and he aims to stay with the Orioles to support rehab and a potential comeback.

He has expressed optimism about recovery, noting improved spirits after surgery and a determined rehab path to come back stronger.