PITTSBURGH – An MRI on Zach Eflin’s right elbow has led him to seek a second opinion before the Orioles decide on the next course of action.

Eflin had the MRI on Wednesday, after exiting the previous night’s start in the fourth inning, and he’s flying to Texas for a consultation with Dr. Keith Meister.

Manager Craig Albernaz informed the media today of Eflin’s appointment but didn’t provide any further information, such as the result of the imaging.

The assumption always is that positive news would preclude an examination with an outside source.

Asked about the first opinion, Albernaz said, “I’m not going to share anything. I’m sorry.”

Eflin had back surgery in August, re-signed with the club in December and broke camp after an impressive spring training. He provided evidence that he felt good on the mound, that the back wasn’t an issue, but he lasted only 3 2/3 innings in Tuesday’s start against the Rangers.

The back is fine. In an unfortunate turn, it’s his elbow that’s knocked him out of the rotation again.

Eflin went on the injured list three times in 2025 – once for his lat and twice with back pain.

Head athletic trainer Scott Barringer went to the mound Tuesday after Eflin threw a first-pitch curveball to Ezequiel Duran with two outs in the fourth. Pitching coach Drew French checked on Eflin after the veteran right-hander walked Evan Carter to bring Duran to the plate.

In his first game since July 28, Eflin struck out six batters over the first three innings with his sinker, changeup, sweeper and curveball. He served up a home run to Duran leading off the third, and recorded his seventh strikeout when Joc Pederson flailed at a changeup leading off the fourth.

Eflin allowed one run and four hits with two walks and seven strikeouts. He was done after 74 pitches, 44 for strikes.

The Orioles signed Eflin to a $10 million contract that includes a mutual option. He broke camp as the No. 5 starter, with Dean Kremer optioned to Triple-A Norfolk. Kremer is making his first start this afternoon in Memphis.

Meister also provided a second opinion on Albert Suárez’s right forearm flexor strain in September. Suárez avoided surgery, signed a minor league deal after the Orioles non-tendered him, and had his contract selected when Eflin went on the injured list.

Meister also handled the elbow reconstructive surgeries with closer Félix Bautista, starter Kyle Bradish and reliever Tyler Wells. The organization unfortunately has a long history with him.

*Weston Wilson hit his first home run today for Norfolk, connecting against former Orioles left-hander Bruce Zimmermann in the first inning.

Enrique Bradfield Jr. is out of the lineup after crashing into the outfield fence last night and leaving the game. He told Tides radio broadcaster Pete Michaud that he’s sore but doing OK and hopes to be in the lineup Saturday or Sunday.

Jackson Holliday rested yesterday but is starting at second base again today.