Joel Kuhnel
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12 de abril de 2026
Nails down second save
Kuhnel picked up the save Sunday against the Mets, throwing a clean ninth inning.
Análisis
Kuhnel made quick work of the Mets on Sunday, retiring the side on a mere four pitches (three strikes). It was the second save of the season for the right-hander, who may be working his way into the ninth-inning mix in the Athletics' unsettled closer picture. Kuhnel has tossed 3.1 scoreless innings so far this year, and it's worth noting that high-leverage arms Hogan Harris, Scott Barlow and Elvis Alvarado all worked ahead of Kuhnel on Sunday.
9 de abril de 2026
Secures save Wednesday
Kuhnel struck out one in a perfect inning to earn the save in Wednesday's 3-2 win over the Yankees.
Análisis
This was Kuhnel's second appearance of the season, and he was trusted with a one-run lead that the Athletics had earned in the top of the ninth inning. He got the job done on 12 pitches (eight strikes), finishing with a strikeout of Ryan McMahon. Mark Leiter had the Athletics' first save of the campaign, but he also leads the team with two blown saves, one of which was Tuesday. Scott Barlow and Hogan Harris were both utilized earlier in the game Wednesday while the score was tied at 2-2. The closer job could very well be up for grabs, but it's unclear if Kuhnel will be a serious contender for ninth-inning duties. With most of the Athletics' relievers getting hit hard early in the campaign, simply pitching at an average level could help Kuhnel at least secure high-leverage work.
7 de abril de 2026
Officially called up
The Athletics selected Kuhnel's contract from Triple-A Las Vegas on Tuesday.
Análisis
The right-hander delivered two scoreless outings for Las Vegas and will replace Luis Morales on the Athletics' active roster. Kuhnel last pitched in the majors in 2024, when he made 10 regular-season appearances between the Rays and Astros and gave up five earned runs with a 5:0 K:BB over 10 innings.
7 de abril de 2026
Promotion on tap
Kuhnel will have his contract selected from Triple-A Las Vegas ahead of Tuesday's game against the Yankees, Martin Gallegos of MLB.com reports.
Análisis
Kuhnel's promotion to the big leagues will be the corresponding move after the Athletics optioned Luis Morales to Triple-A earlier in the day Monday. Kuhnel has looked sharp in two appearances so far this season with the Aviators, as he's racked up six strikeouts over three scoreless frames.
