SAD NEWS: Just In Another  Orioles’ Fan Favorite  Star Confirm injury Update…

As the Orioles gear up for a potential postseason appearance this year, their chances seem increasingly threatened by an ongoing injury crisis that leaves their pitching staff in disarray.

The latest blow to the team’s pitching came with Zach Eflin, who has been a standout since joining the Orioles from the Rays at the trade deadline, landing on the injured list due to shoulder inflammation. This setback adds to the growing list of pitching woes that has plagued the Orioles throughout the 2024 season.

Eflin had been outstanding for the Orioles, boasting a perfect 4-0 record with a stellar 2.13 ERA across his four starts, helping to stabilize a pitching rotation that had already seen several key players sidelined.

Currently, the Orioles’ entire five-man rotation—consisting of Eflin, Kyle Bradish, Grayson Rodriguez, John Means, and Tyler Wells—is on the injured list. This group, when healthy, was at least as strong as the Orioles’ active rotation.

Despite this grim situation, manager Brandon Hyde has maintained some optimism, suggesting that Eflin’s injury may be minor and could result in just a 15-day stint on the IL.

However, this would still mean missing at least two starts, including the one scheduled for tonight.

In response, Cole Irvin has been recalled from the minors for an emergency start, and Cade Povich is expected to take over Eflin’s spot afterward, aiming to replicate his impressive performance from the previous Saturday.

It’s hard to imagine that at the start of the season, fans would foresee the August rotation for the Orioles including Dean Kremer, Albert Suárez, Trevor Rogers, and Cade Povich, with Corbin Burnes being the lone standout from the original rotation.

This is a stark contrast to April, when the notion of having too many good starting pitchers seemed like a good problem to have—a far cry from the current reality.

With Eflin out and Corbin Burnes experiencing an unexpected rough stretch, the Orioles will need their remaining healthy pitchers to step up significantly.

On a positive note, Dean Kremer has shown resilience, delivering strong performances in his recent starts.

Last night, Kremer threw six solid innings, and the Orioles managed a 9-5 victory over the Mets despite a tense eighth inning. For more on this game, Tyler Young’s recap provides the full details.

In conclusion, the Orioles’ pitching staff faces considerable challenges as they approach the postseason, with injuries continuing to deplete their roster. The team must rely on their remaining healthy pitchers to maintain their competitive edge and navigate these turbulent times.