The Athletics have designated veteran right-hander Aaron Civale for assignment as they continue to reshape their pitching staff ahead of the second half. This decision follows the recent departure of longtime pitching coach Scott Emerson.
Left-hander Jacob Lopez will replace Civale in the starting rotation, providing the Athletics with another opportunity to evaluate a younger pitcher as they plan for the future.
Civale was brought in to add stability and experience, but struggled to deliver consistent results. The front office chose to clear a roster spot now rather than wait until the trade deadline.
Lopez joins the rotation after splitting time between Triple-A Las Vegas and the major league roster this season. The 28-year-old mainly served as a multi-inning reliever but will now have a longer opportunity as a starter.
The Athletics’ projected rotation for the second half includes Gage Jump, J.T. Ginn, Jacob Lopez, Jeffrey Springs, and Jack Perkins. This lineup shows the organization’s increased focus on developing young pitching talent. The decision also comes as the Athletics try to halt a difficult season. The club entered the All-Star break on a lengthy losing streak and has leaned more into evaluating younger players while building toward the future.
It remains to be seen whether Lopez will capitalize on this opportunity, but the Athletics have clarified their direction. Moving on from Civale signals a continued commitment to giving younger pitchers meaningful major league innings in the second half.
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Eric Butler is a Contributor for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on Instagram and X via @ReportandOpine
