Orioles and Braves Interested in Free Agent Nathan Eovaldi

The Baltimore Orioles and Atlanta Braves are among the teams expressing interest in free agent right-hander Nathan Eovaldi, according to MLB Network's Jon Morosi.

Eovaldi's Fit and Performance
Eovaldi, who will turn 35 in February, is a viable option for many teams despite his age and injury history. He is unlikely to secure a long-term contract due to his medical background, which includes two Tommy John surgeries. However, Eovaldi's consistent performance in recent years keeps him in high demand. MLB Trade Rumors has projected him to receive a $44 million guarantee on a two-year deal, with the possibility of a third year.

Over the past five years, Eovaldi has made 115 starts, posting a 3.75 ERA. His annual ERA has never exceeded 3.87 during this period. His strikeout rates have ranged from 22.4% to 26.1%, his walk rates from 3.5% to 8.1%, and his ground ball rates from 42% to 51%. Overall, he has pitched 654 2/3 innings with a 24% strikeout rate, a 5.6% walk rate, and a 46.9% ground ball rate. Such consistent performance would enhance any team's rotation.

Suitors and Market Competition
Many teams, including the Texas Rangers, have shown interest in bringing Eovaldi on board. He has also been linked to the Braves, the Boston Red Sox, and now the Orioles. Given his performance and relatively affordable contract, it's likely that several other clubs are also eyeing Eovaldi, even if they haven't been publicly reported.

Baltimore's Rotation Needs
For the Orioles, Eovaldi represents a logical fit due to their rotation needs. With their 2024 ace Corbin Burnes now a free agent and injuries sidelining Kyle Bradish and Tyler Wells for part of the 2025 season, the Orioles need to bolster their starting pitching. Trade deadline acquisition Trevor Rogers struggled and was demoted, leaving the rotation core consisting of Zach Eflin, Grayson Rodriguez, and Dean Kremer. Albert Suárez, despite a solid year in a swing role, may be better suited as a depth option. Rookie pitchers Chayce McDermott and Cade Povich made their debuts in 2024 but have yet to establish themselves fully.

​Adding Eovaldi could provide the Orioles with the stability and experience they need to strengthen their rotation and make a playoff push.