In need of a little oomph from an exhausted bullpen, the Oakland A’s will call up No. 2 prospect A.J. Puk on Tuesday, per reports from MLB.com.
The 24-year-old with a 98 mph fastball and 90 mph slider should certainly add a unique dynamic to this pitching staff as it prepares to face the New York Yankees for a crucial three-game series and beyond.
Puk is a starter by trade, but will pitch out of the bullpen this year due to inning limitations dictated by his recovery from Tommy John surgery.
He’s been spectacular in his rehab assignments, collecting 38 strikeouts in 25.1 innings with the Las Vegas Aviators of the hitter-friendly PCL, the Midland Rockhounds and Stockton Ports.
His last outing with Las Vegas yielded two strikeouts in one inning of work. Puk has yet to pitch back-to-back days, but is working off short rest with off-days.
The Athletics have yet to confirm Puk’s callup.
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