Orioles Face Rotation Dilemma as Pitching Staff Deepens

SARASOTA, Fla. – The Baltimore Orioles are navigating a complex decision regarding their starting rotation as a surplus of pitching talent emerges, creating an uncomfortable question: who will be left out when all six starters are healthy? The situation is further complicated by the return of Zach Eflin from back surgery and the need to balance performance with contractual obligations.

Crowded Rotation Following Offseason Additions

Last year, Cade Povich earned a spot on the Opening Day roster, starting the home opener against the Boston Red Sox. However, the Orioles’ pitching landscape has significantly changed since then. The team has bolstered its rotation through trades and free agency, acquiring Shane Baz from the Tampa Bay Rays and signing veteran Chris Bassitt. These additions, combined with the returning core of Trevor Rogers, Kyle Bradish, Zach Eflin, and Dean Kremer, create a logjam for starting positions.

Eflin’s Return Presents a Challenge

Zach Eflin’s recovery from back surgery is progressing well, and his anticipated return presents a hard choice for the Orioles. While the team will need all six starters over the course of a 162-game season, determining who will initially head to the bullpen is a tough decision. Sending Eflin to the bullpen is a logical option, given his prior experience and relatively inexpensive contract, but it may not be the most strategically sound move.

Why Eflin Shouldn’t Be Sent to the Bullpen

When healthy, Eflin has consistently outperformed Kremer, Bassitt, and Baz in recent years. Removing a potentially top-three starter to avoid an uncomfortable conversation could be detrimental to the team’s performance. A significant portion of Eflin’s contract is tied to incentives based on games started; a move to the bullpen could jeopardize his ability to reach those incentives, potentially creating a negative perception for the organization.

Other Rotation Candidates and Considerations

Dean Kremer has been a consistent workhorse for the Orioles, leading the team in innings pitched over the past four seasons. Pushing him to the bullpen after his consistent performance as a starter would also be a difficult decision. Bassitt and Baz, acquired through significant investments, are unlikely candidates for bullpen duty. The Orioles’ early-season schedule, featuring several off days, doesn’t necessarily necessitate a six-man rotation, which could strain the bullpen.

Povich Optioned to Triple-A

On Sunday, the Orioles optioned Cade Povich to Minor League camp, meaning the 25-year-old left-hander will start the 2026 campaign in Triple-A Norfolk’s rotation. Povich had a 5.20 ERA in 38 games (36 starts) over the past two seasons. While a move to the bullpen was considered, Povich will focus on developing as a starter in the minors.

Looking Ahead

the decision on who will be left out of the rotation will likely be determined by performance and potential injuries as the season progresses. The Orioles have built a deep and talented pitching staff, positioning them well for a competitive 2026 season. Manager Craig Albernaz has not ruled out the possibility of Povich beginning the season in the Orioles’ bullpen.