Joey Estes
Breakdown
Performance
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June 14, 2026
Chased in fifth inning
Estes allowed four runs on five hits and a walk while striking out four over 4.1 innings in a no-decision versus the Rockies on Saturday.
Analysis
Estes was making his season debut at the major-league level. He was fine initially, but he gave up a solo home run to Brett Sullivan in the third inning and started to labor in the fifth. Estes was pulled at 71 pitches (47 strikes), and the Athletics' bullpen took care of business to help the team earn a win. This was likely a spot start for him -- Aaron Civale (shoulder) is set to return next week, and it's unlikely Estes will stay in the rotation over Gage Jump or Jack Perkins, especially given his 5.95 ERA in 12 Triple-A starts this year.
June 13, 2026
Drawing spot start Saturday
Estes is slated to start Saturday's game against the Rockies at Las Vegas Ballpark, Martin Gallegos of MLB.com reports.
Analysis
The Athletics recalled Estes from Triple-A Las Vegas on Tuesday, and after he wasn't needed in relief in any of the team's ensuing three games, he'll be available to step into the vacant spot in the rotation for his 2026 MLB debut. The 24-year-old righty is likely in line for just a spot start, as Aaron Civale (shoulder) is poised to return from the 15-day injured list to slot into the rotation next week following a successful rehab outing with the Triple-A club Thursday. Estes will be making his start in a familiar setting Saturday with the Athletics hosting the Rockies at their Triple-A park in Las Vegas, but he shouldn't be on the radar as a streaming option while pitching 2,000 feet above sea level in extreme heat. He submitted a 5.95 ERA, 1.49 WHIP and 39:28 K:BB across 59 innings over his 12 starts in the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League prior to his call-up.
June 9, 2026
Gets call from Triple-A
The Athletics recalled Estes from Triple-A Las Vegas on Tuesday.
Analysis
Estes has accumulated a 5.95 ERA and 1.49 WHIP in 59 innings (12 starts) at Triple-A this season, but he'll be welcomed back into the majors as the replacement on the active roster for Kade Morris, who was optioned to Las Vegas. Though the demotion of Morris creates a void in the big-league rotation, it's unclear if Estes will be the top choice to fill the open spot. Along with Estes, Mason Barnett is a candidate to join the rotation after striking out seven over four shutout innings of long relief in his most recent appearance Friday in Houston. With an off day on tap Thursday, the Athletics could get by without a fifth starter until next week, so Estes will likely be available out of the bullpen for at least the next couple of games.
