Orioles' Trade For 2023 AL Wins Leader Draws Strong Reviews

The Orioles received rave reviews for their deal to acquire starting pitcher Zach Eflin from the Rays.

The 30-year-old, 6-foot-6 righthander has incredible command and should be a valuable addition to a team contending for a World Series title.

Last season, Eflin finished sixth in the AL Cy Young voting. He led the league in wins (16) and had a 3.50 earned-run average. He pitched 177.2 innings and struck out 186 batters while only allowing 24 walks.

His control has been just as impressive this season. Eflin has walked 13 batters and has one of the best walk rates (2.8 percent) in the MLB. ( h/t Baseball Savant )

Fans praised the Orioles (61-41) on social media for the trade.

"Zach Eflin makes a ton of sense for the Orioles. He bolsters the rotation, provides it security, and has team control through 2025," wrote one fan.

"Orioles also make a very good trade for Zach Eflin," added another. "Don’t even give up a Top 12 prospect. Excuse time is over for the front office."

"Beware Baltimore," warned another.

The Athletic's Aaron Gleeman wrote, "We ranked Zach Eflin as the #26 player on The Athletic 's trade deadline big board."

The trade deadline is Tuesday, July 30, at 6 p.m. ET.