Should Orioles extend Eflin, Sugano? | MAILBAG

Question: Should the O’s offer to extend Zach Eflin and Tomoyuki Sugano before the end of this season? This would not be in lieu of signing a free-agent pitcher like Framber Valdez and trading for a proven starter. From: Phil Cooke

Answer: Phil, I would be surprised if the Orioles attempted to extend Eflin and Sugano before the end of the season. Because Eflin spent so much time on the injured list, I think his market value will not be what I thought it would be at the beginning of the season.

If they want Eflin, I would think they could wait to see how he recovers and then sign him. As for Sugano, I would think he’d want to test the free-agent market and see what’s out there. I wouldn’t rule him out coming back to the Orioles in 2026, but I think he’ll look around at the end of the season.

Question: Any chance the Orioles move Tyler O’Neill to first base? He will bring power to the position that is missing with the trade of Ryan O’Hearn and poor results of Coby Mayo and Ryan Mountcastle. Also, it might help keep him healthy by avoiding injury, which is more common in the outfield. From: Bill Connor

Answer: Bill, that’s a new theory. I would be very surprised if the Orioles moved O’Neill to first base. He’s never played first base before, and I think the Orioles are reasonably deep at first with Mayo, Mountcastle and Samuel Basallo.

They need outfielders, and if O’Neill is to contribute to the Orioles in 2026, I think it will be there and not at first base.

Most weekdays, I’ll be answering at least one Orioles question. If you’d like to submit a question, send it to: Rich@BaltimoreBaseball.com. Questions may be edited for clarity, length and style.