What happened: Following a gut-wrenching 7-6 loss to the Chicago Cubs where they surrendered a three-run lead in the ninth inning, the Athletics designated reliever Joel Kuhnel for assignment. In a corresponding move, the team called up Elvis Alvarado to join the bullpen.
Why it matters: Kuhnel was responsible for all four runs in the decisive final frame of the tightly contested matchup. The swift roster move indicates the team's immediate need to stabilize their late-inning relief options after a frustrating defeat.
By the numbers: The Athletics sit at 4-6 on the season following the 7-6 loss, while the Cubs improved to 4-8.
What to watch: Watch to see how Alvarado is deployed in high-leverage situations as the Athletics look to rebound and find consistency in the late innings.