The Athletics shake up their roster after a losing streak
Amid a streak of nine consecutive losses, the Athletics made significant changes to their roster this Friday, calling up five players. Among them, prospect [Denzel Clarke](https://www.espn.com/mlb/player/_/id/4918085/denzel-clarke) stands out.
Management, led by David Forst, hopes these moves will provide greater flexibility to the team. Seth Brown, a team veteran, was designated for assignment.
“Clearly, we are in a moment where we can’t find a way to win. I think we are better than we have shown in the last 10 days,” Forst commented in a press conference.
David Forst
Clarke, a 25-year-old center fielder, recognized for his defense, speed, and power, was the team’s fourth pick in the 2021 amateur draft. He was expected to debut in the Major Leagues on Friday night against the Philadelphia Phillies.
In 31 games with Las Vegas, Clarke batted .286 with seven stolen bases and 21 RBIs. His on-base percentage of .436 placed him fourth in the Pacific Coast League.
In addition to Clarke, left-handed pitcher Jacob Lopez and infielder CJ Alexander were called up from Triple-A Las Vegas. Catcher Willie MacIver and infielder Logan Davidson were also selected from Las Vegas.
During the losing streak, the team has been outscored 72-26, with a batting average of .209 and an ERA of 8.23, allowing 23 home runs.
Outfielder JJ Bleday was optioned to Triple-A, along with right-handed pitcher Carlos Duran and catcher Jhonny Pereda. The Athletics also transferred second baseman Zack Gelof to the 60-day injured list.
Forst explained that Bleday needed a “reset” to find rhythm at the plate and in the field, something he hadn’t achieved at the Major League level. Manager Mark Kotsay spoke with Bleday about the decision on Friday.
“We hope he returns very soon,” said Forst.
David Forst
Third baseman Gio Urshela was placed on the 10-day injured list after suffering a left hamstring strain in Thursday’s loss against the Los Angeles Angels. He underwent an MRI on Friday.
Urshela left the game in the sixth inning due to the injury, in a game that ended 10-5.
In the game, Urshela connected a hit in two at-bats with a walk with the bases loaded. He bats .224 with 13 RBIs in 32 games this season.
Brown, 32, was the longest-tenured player on the team, but he wasn’t getting regular opportunities. He spent time in the minor leagues last year and Forst hoped he could play for Las Vegas before returning to the Athletics.
Brown batted .192 with a home run and three RBIs in 33 games.
