Struggling Rookie Starter Optioned After Costly Performance
The Athletics optioned starting pitcher Mason Barnett to Triple-A Las Vegas following his start against the Kansas City Royals.
The Athletics have optioned starting pitcher Mason Barnett to Triple-A Las Vegas following his poor performance against the Kansas City Royals on Monday. To replace Barnett, the A's recalled right-hander Taylor Rashi, who they claimed off waivers from the Minnesota Twins just over a week ago. Barnett, 25, has struggled this season, bouncing between Triple-A and MLB, and has managed only a 7.08 ERA through 40.2 innings pitched in 18 games.
His recent start against the Royals lasted just 2.2 innings, as he allowed six runs on seven hits and issued four walks. Despite the Athletics playing in a challenging pitching environment, Barnett's numbers indicate he has severely underperformed. The Athletics acquired Barnett from the Royals in 2024 for closer Luke Erceg and now need to find another pitcher to bolster their rotation.
With injured left-hander Jeffrey Springs recently placed on the injured list, the Athletics will rely on their expanded bullpen to cope in the upcoming series against the Royals.
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