The Miami Marlins made a bullpen move ahead of Friday's series opener against the San Diego Padres, optioning right-hander Zach Brzykcy to Triple-A Jacksonville. The move clears an active roster spot as Miami looks to stabilize its relief corps during a difficult stretch.
In a corresponding move, the Marlins reinstated left-handed reliever John King from the 15-day injured list. King returns after missing just over two weeks with a left lateral ankle sprain suffered during fielding practice.
Brzykcy appeared in five games during his latest stint with Miami, allowing four earned runs across 5 1/3 innings. The Marlins will give the right-hander an opportunity to regain consistency with Triple-A Jacksonville.
King returns after posting a 3.44 ERA and 1.21 WHIP across 34 innings before landing on the injured list. His return gives manager Clayton McCullough another experienced left-handed option as the bullpen continues to deal with injuries.
The roster move comes with the Marlins trying to halt a nine-game losing streak after an 0-6 road trip. Miami enters the weekend at 52-51, sitting third in the National League East and looking to remain in the Wild Card race.
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The visiting Padres also arrive needing momentum after dropping five of their last seven games since the All-Star break. Both clubs are searching for a strong start to the second half as the trade deadline approaches.
For Miami, activating King provides an immediate boost to a bullpen that has been stretched by injuries, while Brzykcy will continue his development in Triple-A with hopes of earning another opportunity later this season.
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