The offseason buzz around Major League Baseball is typically dominated by high-profile signings and blockbuster trades. But every so often, a name emerges from beneath the radar—a player whose potential impact could far exceed expectations. According to an MLB insider, one such player is former Philadelphia Phillies starter Zach Eflin.
The Rise of Eflin
Zach Eflin, who played for the Phillies from 2016 to 2022, was often overshadowed by more prominent rotation members like Aaron Nola and Zack Wheeler. However, Eflin quietly built a reputation as a dependable middle-of-the-rotation arm. Known for his control and ability to induce ground balls, he showcased his potential during the Phillies’ 2022 playoff run, where he transitioned into a high-leverage bullpen role and excelled under pressure.
Eflin’s 2022 season was interrupted by a knee injury that limited him to just 75.2 innings in the regular season. Despite this setback, his performance—a 4.04 ERA and 65 strikeouts against just 15 walks—demonstrated his value when healthy. His strong postseason outings only reinforced his case as a player capable of thriving in high-stakes situations.
A Fresh Start
Following the 2022 season, Eflin signed a three-year, $40 million deal with the Tampa Bay Rays, the largest free-agent contract in the franchise’s history. The Rays, known for their ability to maximize the potential of pitchers, saw something in Eflin that other teams may have overlooked. And in 2023, he delivered. Eflin set career highs in wins (16), innings pitched (177.2), and strikeouts (186) while posting a stellar 3.50 ERA. His 5.3 WAR ranked among the top pitchers in the American League, yet his name still flies under the radar in broader discussions about elite starters.
Why Eflin Is Worth Watching
An MLB insider highlighted Eflin’s evolution as a pitcher, pointing to his ability to adapt and thrive in different roles as a key reason he’s poised for continued success. “He’s not just a ground-ball specialist anymore,” the insider noted. “The Rays have helped him refine his pitch mix, and his cutter and curveball have become legitimate weapons.”
Eflin’s 2023 success wasn’t just about refinement—it was about durability. After years of battling knee issues, Eflin remained healthy throughout the season, giving the Rays a reliable presence every fifth day. His ability to command the strike zone and limit hard contact makes him an ideal fit for any contending team looking to stabilize its rotation.
What’s Next for Eflin?
As the 2024 season approaches, Eflin is expected to anchor the Rays’ rotation alongside Tyler Glasnow and Shane McClanahan. With Tampa Bay consistently in the mix for postseason contention, Eflin’s role could be pivotal in determining the team’s success.
While big names like Shohei Ohtani and Gerrit Cole dominate headlines, Zach Eflin’s journey from overlooked Phillies starter to Rays ace-in-the-making is a reminder that sometimes, the most impactful players are the ones who quietly go about their business. As one insider put it, “Eflin’s ceiling might not be as high as some of the flashier names, but he’s as steady and reliable as they come. That’s a commodity every team needs.”
For fans and analysts alike, keeping an eye on Eflin in 2024 might just prove to be one of the more rewarding storylines of the season.
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