Orioles pitcher Zach Eflin left Tuesday's game against the Texas Rangers in the fourth inning due to right elbow discomfort. He pitched 3 2/3 innings, striking out seven batters while allowing one run on a solo homer by Ezequiel Duran. With two outs in the fourth, Eflin threw a ball before being replaced by Grant Wolfram, who recorded the final out. $10 million one-year contract signed offseason includes a $25 million mutual option for 2027, with escalators tied to start thresholds: $1M for 15 starts, $1.5M for 20, $2.5M for 25.

Eflin's 2025 season was hampered by back issues, ending with a 6-5 record and 5.93 ERA. The injury raises questions about his durability and impact on the rotation. Manager Craig Albernaz's decision to remove him suggests cautious management of his workload.

Kremer, recently recalled from the minors, could step into the starting role if Eflin's absence extends. The right elbow injury timeline will determine Kremer's opportunity to solidify his MLB role. Eflin's contract structure may influence his recovery urgency, balancing health and financial incentives tied to performance metrics.