Padres News: Friars Make a Series of Roster Moves, Prepared for Worst with Yu Darvish

A lot of pitching changes in San Diego this morning.

The Padres announced a series of roster moves on Saturday morning, as they prepare for Sunday's series finale against the Cincinnati Reds.

The team recalled RHP Pedro Avila from Triple-A, and could have him start on Sunday if RHP Yu Darvish isn't fully healthy as he battles the flu.

Additionally, LHP Tom Cosgrove was activated off the injured list, while RHP Drew Carlton was placed on it with elbow inflammation. Finally, LHP Ray Kerr was optioned.

Pedro Avila has been recalled from Triple-A. He could start tomorrow if Yu Darvish isn’t up to it after a bout with the flu.
Lefty reliever Tom Cosgrove has been activated off IL.
Drew Carlton has been placed on the IL with elbow inflammation, and Ray Kerr has been optioned.

— Kevin Acee (@sdutKevinAcee) July 1, 2023

The biggest news here is obviously at the top, with Avila coming up in case Darvish is unable to pitch on Sunday. Avila is yet to pitch in the Majors this season, but has some MLB experience.

In four career MLB games (two starts), Avila has a 2.70 ERA in 13.1 innings pitched. The Padres really need to get back on track, so maybe Avila could help.

Unfortunately, Avila has been horrible at Triple-A this season, sporting an 8.49 ERA in 16 appearances and 13 starts. It'll be interesting to see how he does against a red-hot Reds team if he's forced to start in place of Darvish.

As for the rest of the moves, the activation of Cosgrove is a massive boost to this Padres bullpen. Cosgrove made his debut earlier this season, and was one of San Diego's best relievers before being placed on the IL.

In 16 appearances, Cosgrove threw 17 innings, and had a minuscule 0.53 ERA. The Padres will hope he picks up right where he left off, and bolsters the bullpen that could use the help.