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3d ago

Orioles Shut Down Bautista and Eflin for Remainder of Season

Baltimore is stretching out its remaining starters as it tests a committee closer strategy ahead of September roster expansion.

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Jun 30, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Felix Bautista (74) pitches against the Texas Rangers during the ninth inning at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images/File Photo
Jul 23, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher Zach Eflin (24) delivers a pitch in the second inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images/File Photo
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Overview

  • Interim manager Tony Mansolino confirmed that both closer Félix Bautista and starter Zach Eflin will miss the rest of the 2025 season due to a significant shoulder injury for Bautista and a scheduled lumbar microdiscectomy for Eflin.
  • Eflin relayed that his surgeon anticipates a roughly 12-week recovery period that could position him for spring training and said he would “absolutely” welcome a return to Baltimore in free agency.
  • Bautista, who returned this season from Tommy John surgery, had recorded 19 saves and posted a 2.60 ERA in 35 outings before the shoulder issue surfaced, and he is set for further evaluation this week.
  • With the rotation depleted, the Orioles are stretching out Kyle Bradish and Tyler Wells and have discussed moving to a six-man rotation as they prepare for expanded rosters in September.
  • Season-long pitching woes have forced Baltimore to deploy a closer-by-committee approach led by Keegan Akin, rely heavily on minor-league depth and navigate 27 injured-list stints among pitchers.