Orioles’ Eflin getting 2nd opinion on right elbow; Starting lineups for O’s-Pirates; Top prospect Konnor Griffin making debut

PITTSBURGH—Orioles manager Craig Albernaz said that right-hander Zach Eflin, who left Tuesday’s game with right elbow discomfort and had an MRI on Wednesday, is heading for an examination and a second opinion with Dr. Keith Meister in Arlington, Texas.

Eflin threw 77 pitches and pitched 3 2/3 innings in his first start of the season. He allowed one run and struck out seven.

The Orioles put him on the 15-day injured list on Wednesday and added Albert Suárez to their bullpen.

Eflin re-signed with the Orioles in December after having back surgery in August. He was effective in spring training and was added to the starting rotation, leading to the demotion of Dean Kremer.

Griffin debuts

In their home opener, the Pirates are starting baseball’s top prospect, 19-year-old Konnor Griffin, at shortstop in his major league debut.

“Konnor Griffin’s a hell of a ballplayer,” Albernaz said. “Legit five-tool talent. Crazy that he’s 19 years old and that big [6 feet 3, 222 pounds], and he has all these tools. It’s great for the game. The game is in a great spot. For the Pirates to make this move, I think it’s awesome.

“As competitors, I think we want the best players on the field at all time, just to go out there and compete, but more so for the fans.”

Here are Friday’s lineups:

Orioles

Taylor Ward-LF

Gunnar Henderson-SS

Pete Alonso-1B

Adley Rutschman-C

Samuel Basallo-DH

Dylan Beavers-RF

Jeremiah Jackson-2B

Colton Cowser-CF

Blaze Alexander-3B

Kyle Bradish-RHP

Pirates

Oneil Cruz-CF

Brandon Lowe-2B

Bryan Reynolds-LF

Marcell Ozuna-DH

Ryan O’Hearn-RF

Spencer Horwitz-1B

Konnor Griffin-SS

Jared Triolo-3B

Henry Davis-C

Mitch Keller-RHP

Call for questions: I answer Orioles questions most weekdays. Please send yours to: Rich@BaltimoreBaseball.com