A's Manager Kotsay Explores Rotation Options Following Severino's Injury

CHICAGO (AP) — Oakland Athletics manager Mark Kotsay is assessing his rotation strategies after Luis Severino was placed on the injured list due to a strained right shoulder. In a recent move, the A's called up right-handed pitchers Kade Morris and Mason Barnett from Triple-A Las Vegas ahead of their game against the Chicago Cubs. To make room, the team optioned righty Michael Kelly and lefty Jacob Lopez, while Brooks Kriske was moved to the 60-day injured list.

Morris, a promising young arm in the organization, is eager to make his major league debut. Meanwhile, Barnett has already seen action this season, throwing two scoreless innings on April 19 against the Chicago White Sox. “We’ve worn the bullpen down a little bit,” Kotsay noted, indicating the need for fresh arms. “But they’ll provide some length right now, and we’ll decide who will have the chance to fill one of the openings in our rotation.”

Severino, 32, was placed on the 15-day injured list on Saturday, following a rough outing against the New York Yankees where he lasted just one inning in an 8-2 defeat. Kotsay mentioned that Severino is expected to be sidelined for “a minimum of four to six weeks, if not longer.” The pitching staff is further strained with right-hander Aaron Civale also on the 15-day IL due to shoulder tendinitis, necessitating the call-up of Gage Jump, who was set to make his second major league start against the Cubs.

Lopez's recent start against the Yankees resulted in a disappointing seven runs allowed over two-plus innings, and his season stats reflect struggles with a 6.75 ERA across 10 starts and two relief appearances. Following their series with the Cubs, the A's will head to Houston for a weekend series, with their next off day not scheduled until June 11.

Morris, a third-round selection in the 2023 amateur draft from the University of Nevada, joined the A's in a trade with the New York Mets for Paul Blackburn in July 2024. Before his promotion, he posted a 5-3 record with a 4.45 ERA in 11 starts for Las Vegas. “I think he’s throwing the ball well,” Kotsay remarked. “He’s a pitcher that pitches with a lot of emotion. When he steps on that mound for the first time, I expect a lot of energy and excitement. The Triple-A season has gone pretty well for him.”

In addition to the pitching concerns, the A's are also hopeful for the return of All-Star shortstop Jacob Wilson, who is recovering from a left shoulder injury and may begin a minor league rehab assignment this weekend. “Obviously, Jacob feels good about where he’s at right now,” Kotsay added. “This will be a couple of days of pretty good work here, pregame.”