Orioles trade Eflin

The Baltimore Orioles have traded for right-handed pitcher Zach Eflin from the Tampa Bay Rays, sending three prospects—Matthew Etzel, Jackson Baumeister, and Mac Horvath—in return. Eflin, who has a 5-7 record and a 4.09 ERA this season, is seen as a key addition for the Orioles as they lead the AL East. The Rays, looking to save on payroll, will benefit from the trade by reducing Eflin's remaining salary. Baumeister, a second-round pick in 2023, and Etzel, a 10th-round choice, are considered valuable prospects, with Horvath ranked as the 10th best in the Orioles' system. Earlier on the same day, the Orioles also traded outfielder Austin Hays to the Phillies for reliever Seranthony Dominguez. This series of moves highlights the Orioles' strategy to bolster their roster for the pennant race while the Rays manage their budget.