The Orioles parted ways with pitcher Zach Eflin again today, declining the 2027 mutual option on his contract.

Eflin made $10 million this season but appeared in only one game and underwent ligament-reconstructive elbow surgery. He receives $2 million in his buyout and returns to the free agent market.

It’s possible that the Orioles attempt to work out another deal with Eflin, but he made three stops on the injured list in 2025 before undergoing a lumbar microdiscectomy on his lower back in August. He broke camp with the team, bumping fifth starter Dean Kremer to the minors, but lasted only 3 2/3 innings before exiting with elbow pain.

Mutual options rarely are exercised and the Orioles weren’t going to pay Eflin $25 million while he continued his rehab.

Eflin has stated his desire to stay with the Orioles, but he’s free to negotiate with other clubs while uncertainty swirls over the date of his return to the mound.

Starters Trevor Rogers and Chris Bassitt and relievers Andrew Kittredge and Keegan Akin became free agents yesterday. Closer Ryan Helsley exercised his $14 million option.

Outfielder Rece Hinds appeared to sit on the 40-man roster bubble after the Orioles acquired him from the Marlins on Aug. 3 for cash considerations, but he signed a one-year major league contract earlier today.

Hinds went 5-for-28 (.179) with two doubles, four walks and 13 strikeouts in 12 games. He also had a few mishaps in right field.

Today’s deal doesn’t come with any promises for Hinds, who’s out of minor league options. He’s got to make the club or be exposed to waivers. And the Orioles are in the market for upgrades in the outfield.

A small raise for Hinds could discourage teams from putting in a claim if the Orioles designate him for assignment. They’ve made similar moves in past offseasons.

Hinds is a career .171/.229/.388 hitter in 64 games over parts of three seasons.