The Diamondbacks called up two pitching prospects to help an injury-depleted pitching staff on June 21, with one of them starting for Arizona on Father’s Day. Plus, the Twins cut reliever Justin Lawrence after struggles with Minnesota.
D-Backs call up two prospects
Jose Cabrera, who will start for the Diamondbacks on June 21, had his contract selected by Arizona. Kohl Drake, who was acquired from the Rangers last July, was also called up, as Arizona looks to fill some holes with Michael Soroka and Ryne Nelson on the IL.
Cabera, 24 years of age, threw 135.1 IP with Double-A Amarillo and posted an ERA (4.92) just under 5.00. However, he gave up a lot of hits and not as many walks. This season with Reno, the right-hander struck out 64 over 61 IP, posted a sub-4.00 ERA, and limited well-hit (4.3% Barrel%) contact.
Low-to-mid-90s fastballs, including a four-seamer that ran up to 97 MPH, and a sinker. Additionally, Cabrera’s high-80s cutter has been his big swing-and-miss pitch, one that had a 31.4% Whiff%.
Kohl Drake, meanwhile, was a very notable prospect with Texas before the D-Backs acquired him last year. But since then, the 25-year-old lefty hasn’t pitched well in the Pacific Coast League this season.
Drake gave up 11 home runs over 54 innings, already one more than he allowed in 89 frames last season. Plus, a 7.83 ERA and a K/9 below 9.0 for the first time in his professional career.
To make room, the Diamondbacks optioned Philip Abner to Triple-A Reno and DFA’d former top prospect Yilber Diaz.
Twins DFA reliever
The Twins designated reliever Justin Lawrence for assignment. That move opened up an active roster spot for Kendry Rojas, who was activated off the injured list on June 21.
It’s the second time in as many months that Lawrence was designated for assignment. With the Twins, Lawrence struck out 12 over six innings but walked nine and allowed 12 earned runs.
Recalls & options
Jose Corniell (Rangers) and Elmer Rodriguez (Yankees) were recalled from Triple-A.
Alika Williams (Athletics), Jake Bird (Yankees), J.C. Escarra (Yankees), and Tyler Davis (White Sox) were optioned to Triple-A.
Other notes
The Athletics selected INF Joey Meneses and P Matt Krook from Triple-A Las Vegas.
Nick Solak (Padres) and Scott Barlow (Athletics) were designated for assignment.
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