The Athletics reshaped their pitching staff Tuesday, recalling right-handers Kade Morris and Mason Barnett from Triple-A Las Vegas while optioning Michael Kelly and Jacob Lopez. Right-hander Brooks Kriske was transferred to the 60-day injured list.
The moves come as Las Vegas rides a seven-game winning streak after sweeping Tacoma and climbing to 32-23, one game behind Sacramento in the Pacific Coast League West first-half race.
Both Morris and Barnett have factored into that stretch.
Morris Rewarded for Steady Rotation Work
Morris, 23, has been one of the Aviators’ most reliable starters this season, going 5-3 with a 4.45 ERA across 11 starts. He has logged 60.2 innings and recorded 49 strikeouts while taking a consistent turn in the rotation.
In a league known for offense, Morris has provided regular length and helped stabilize the staff during Las Vegas’ 8-2 run over its last 10 games. His ability to work into the middle innings has limited bullpen exposure and allowed the Aviators to maintain momentum during their recent surge.
Originally drafted by the New York Mets in the third round in 2023 out of Nevada, Morris has continued to build durability while maintaining strikeout ability at the Triple-A level.
Barnett Brings Swing-and-Miss Depth
Barnett, 25, has made nine starts for Las Vegas this season, posting a 3-1 record with a 4.64 ERA in 42.2 innings. He has struck out 41 batters and earned Pacific Coast League Pitcher of the Week honors in April.
Although the Pacific Coast League presents challenges for pitchers, Barnett has continued to miss bats and provide flexibility. He has moved between Las Vegas and Oakland multiple times this season and has appeared in one Major League game in 2026, underscoring the organization’s trust in his readiness.
Barnett most recently recorded the final out in Sunday’s 5-3 win over Tacoma as part of the Aviators’ six-game sweep.
The former Auburn standout, drafted in the third round in 2022 by Kansas City, adds another strikeout option to the Athletics’ pitching mix.
Strikeouts Drive the Formula
Las Vegas leads the Pacific Coast League in strikeouts this season, reflecting an organizational emphasis on power arms capable of limiting balls in play.
From Morris’ steady rotation work to Barnett’s swing-and-miss ability, both pitchers contributed during the Aviators’ recent winning stretch.
With a demanding portion of the schedule ahead, Tuesday’s moves provide both rotation depth and bullpen flexibility while promoting two pitchers who have remained regular contributors at Triple-A.
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Dice City Sports editor Mark Hebert covers the Vegas Golden Knights, Las Vegas Raiders, Athletics, and UNLV baseball and softball. He has 24 years of journalism experience, is also a senior reporter at Exhibit City News, and previously covered the Dallas Stars and Texas Rangers. Follow him on X or connect on LinkedIn.
