Orioles Place Zach Eflin on 15-Day Injured List with Back Strain

Baltimore Orioles right-hander Zach Eflin has been placed on the 15-day injured list retroactive to June 29 due to lower back discomfort, sidelining him through the All-Star break. Eflin injured his back during his start against the Tampa Bay Rays, where he lasted only one inning and allowed four earned runs, reflecting ongoing struggles potentially linked to his back issues. The Orioles, cautious about Eflin's health given his back injury history in 2023 and 2024, recalled rookie right-hander Brandon Young from Triple-A Norfolk as a corresponding move. Eflin's performance this season has been underwhelming, with a 5.95 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, and just 42 strikeouts in 62 innings over 12 starts, prompting fantasy managers to consider other options. Interim manager Tony Mansolino emphasized the team's cautious approach, aiming to avoid further injury to the 31-year-old veteran. Eflin's status for a return in late July remains uncertain as he continues to be evaluated.