The Baltimore Orioles are set to promote left-handed pitcher Cole Irvin to start Wednesday afternoon’s game against the New York Mets, according to the Baltimore Banner.
This decision was prompted by the placement of pitcher Zach Eflin on the 15-day injured list due to right shoulder inflammation. Eflin’s injury marks the fifth starting pitcher the Orioles have placed on the IL this season, with three of them sidelined for the rest of the year.
Irvin’s continued presence in the organization is fortuitous. He was initially part of the starting rotation but moved to the bullpen when the rotation became healthier. Following Eflin’s injury, the Orioles had to act quickly and designated Irvin for assignment on July 30.
Luckily, Irvin cleared waivers and remained with the team by accepting an assignment to Triple-A Norfolk. He will pitch for Baltimore in New York on six days’ rest and is expected to stay in the rotation for at least a few more starts.
This season in the Majors, Irvin has posted a 6-5 record with a 4.85 ERA over 21 games (14 starts), striking out 66 batters and issuing 21 walks in 94.2 innings.
It’s uncertain how long Irvin will stay in the Major Leagues. If Eflin returns after his 15-day stint, the Orioles cannot simply reassign Irvin to Norfolk because he is out of minor-league options. They would have to designate him for assignment again, hope he clears waivers, and then reassign him to the minors if he accepts.
Irvin was acquired by the Orioles in a trade with the Oakland Athletics before the 2023 season. He had a 1-4 record in 24 games with Baltimore last year before being sent to Norfolk.
Previously, Irvin was a starter for the Philadelphia Phillies (2019-2020) and the Athletics (2021-22). His career record stands at 28-39 with a 4.48 ERA, 422 strikeouts, and 134 walks over 576.2 innings.
Eflin joins Grayson Rodriguez on the 15-day injured list, with Rodriguez expected to return in September. Three other starters—Kyle Bradish, John Means, and Tyler Wells—are out for the season due to surgeries and aren’t expected back until at least mid-2025.
Additionally, the Orioles have three relievers on the injured list. Closer Félix Bautista is out for the season after Tommy John surgery last year, while Danny Coulombe and Jacob Webb are also on the IL.
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