Ex-Los Angeles Dodgers Star Makes His MLB Comeback with the A’s

The
Athletics
They endured their ninth successive loss on Thursday, and the factors contributing to this outcome remained consistent. The Athletics stayed competitive throughout much of the contest, but their relief pitching faltered towards the end, leading to another match ending with a 10-5 score against them—mirroring Wednesday’s result versus the Angels.

During this season’s slump, we were able to witness former Los Angeles Dodgers prospect Carlos Duran finally make his Major League Baseball debut. Although he was part of the team at the close of April, he hadn’t played in any games yet.

The power pitcher had a strong start on Thursday, inducing a popup from first baseman Nolan Schanuel to the catcher initially. However, the remainder of his appearance was less polished.

In the following four batters, Duran managed to walk three, with the only hit being a single from Logan O’Hoppe when there were runners on base. Fortunately for the Athletics, this did not result in an additional run scoring, although it filled the bases. Duran then walked Jo Adell, allowing another run to come across.

At this juncture, A’s manager Mark Kotsay returned to the bullpen, summoning Hogan Harris, who conceded a run due to a sacrifice fly by Yoán Moncada, followed by another run after allowing a single hit to Kevin Newman. Harris then ended the frame by striking out Kyren Paris, hailing from Oakley, California.

Once everything calmed down, Duran’s last line showed he pitched for only one-third of an inning, gave up one hit, issued three walks, and allowed three runs.

This situation posed a challenge for Duran as he had been holding back with the Athletics aiming to retain their key players until they’re truly necessary. While both Mason Miller and Duran were getting ready during the eighth inning, prepared should the Athletics manage to equalize at 7-7, this did not happen. Consequently, Duran got an opportunity to make his debut in the major league.

He managed to demonstrate some of the reasons why the Athletics traded for him from the Dodgers in return for Esteury Ruiz early this season; his pitches move quite extraordinarily. However, he continues to struggle with consistently poor control. Following the trade, Duran has conceded 21 hits along with 15 walks over 21 innings pitched.

The broadcasters for the Athletics discussed how, to find success at this caliber, a pitcher, especially one coming out of the bullpen, needs to remain competitive within the boundaries of the strike zone. Without maintaining competitiveness here, major league batters will identify their strengths, choose a specific spot, and wait patiently for a particular pitch. During his appearance, many times Shea Langeliers positioned himself inside before having to stretch toward the outer edge of the strike zone with several throws.

One the one hand, this is excellent as his pitches exhibit movement. He consistently hit speeds of 95-97 mph with his fastball, adding another strong suit to his game. Going forward, the crucial aspect for him will be maintaining control over the strikezone and facing batters directly.

He will require some seasoning in the minor leagues before being completely prepared for the A’s bullpen, but this can act as valuable preparation for his future development.

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Ex-Los Angeles Dodgers Prospects Makes His MLB Debut with the Athletics
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