By Nathan Dougherty | Updated June 7, 2025 at 11:37 AM
The New York Yankees have officially addressed their starting rotation concerns by acquiring veteran right-hander Zach Eflin from the Baltimore Orioles, a move that bolsters their pitching depth as the second half of the season approaches.
Eflin, who was in the final year of a three-year, $40 million deal, had been a rumored trade candidate for weeks as the Orioles sank further in the AL East standings. The deal became official late Friday night, with the Yankees sending a package of mid-level prospects to Baltimore in return for the 30-year-old starter.
Eflin joins the Yankees with a 5-2 record and a 4.47 ERA on the season. Despite being one of the few bright spots in the Orioles’ rotation, the team opted to move him before the trade deadline to get value before he hits free agency this winter.
Filling a Critical Void
The Yankees have been aggressively looking to fill gaps in their roster, particularly in the rotation, which has been hit hard by injuries. In addition to a right-handed bat—ideally at third base—pitching was one of the team’s top priorities, as USA Today‘s Bob Nightengale previously reported.
With Luis Gil still working his way back from a high-grade lat strain suffered in spring training, Eflin provides a much-needed stabilizing presence at the back of the rotation.
“We felt like Zach was a perfect fit given our current situation,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said in a post-trade press conference. “He’s been through the battles, knows how to compete, and can give us quality innings right away.”
Luis Gil Nearing Return
Meanwhile, Gil is nearing the end of his rehab process and is expected to return later this summer. Boone shared optimism about Gil’s progress, stating that the young right-hander has been responding well to every step of the recovery.
“It’s still going to take time,” Boone said. “But every sign we’ve seen is positive. Once Luis is back, and with Zach here now, we feel great about how our rotation shapes up moving forward.”
With Eflin now in pinstripes and Gil inching closer to a comeback, the Yankees are positioning themselves as serious contenders in a competitive American League. The move signals the front office’s commitment to going all-in as they chase another postseason run.
