On September 11th, 2024, the Oakland Athletics made significant roster adjustments. Right-handed pitcher Ross Stripling was placed on the 15-day injured list due to a lower back strain, leading the team to call up left-handed pitcher Kyle Muller from Triple-A Las Vegas. In a related move, the A’s designated left-hander Jack O’Loughlin for assignment.
Jack O’Loughlin, who is 24 years old and hails from Australia, made his Major League Baseball debut with the Athletics this season. Over 9 2/3 innings in the Oakland bullpen, O’Loughlin allowed five runs on 13 hits and five walks, while recording six strikeouts. His initial MLB performance followed a mixed year in the Pacific Coast League, where he posted a 6.19 ERA over 68 1/3 innings, including 10 starts and 28 relief appearances. O’Loughlin struck out 22.9% of hitters, but also walked 10% of them.
O’Loughlin joined the A’s for the first time this year after being originally signed by the Detroit Tigers. He had signed a minor league contract with Oakland in the offseason. His 2023 season in Detroit’s farm system was notably better, featuring a combined 124 innings with a 3.99 ERA as a starter across High-A and Triple-A levels.
Kyle Muller, 26, returns to the A’s for another opportunity after previously clearing waivers this season. Once a promising prospect with the Atlanta Braves, Muller was acquired by the Athletics as part of the trade involving Matt Olson. Despite high expectations, Muller struggled in his initial stint with the A’s, posting a 6.39 ERA over 119 2/3 innings. His performance improved somewhat in a relief role earlier this season, though his fastball velocity dropped to a career-low 92.5 mph, possibly affecting his appeal to other teams.
Currently back in Triple-A, Muller has transitioned back into a starting role and has a 4.76 ERA across 28 1/3 innings. His most recent outing was particularly strong, as he threw seven innings, allowing three runs on five hits and a walk while striking out six. The A’s may use Muller in various roles down the stretch, and if he performs well, he could potentially secure a spot on the 40-man roster for the upcoming season.
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