2026 Transactions: Braves Release Bummer, Twins Demote Lewis

The 19th of May saw a significant roster shake-up for several teams across Major League Baseball. Both the Braves and Twins released struggling relievers, while former top MLB Draft pick Royce Lewis was sent to Triple-A.

Braves’ moves

The Braves selected catcher Chadwick Tromp from Triple-A Gwinnett. Additionally, reliever Aaron Bummer was released by the team.

Bummer was acquired in November 2023 from the White Sox, as part of a significant trade that sent pitcher Michael Soroka, plus four others, to Chicago. But while the veteran lefty was valuable in the early part of his time with Atlanta, that wasn’t the case in 2026.

Through 15.1 IP, Bummer allowed six home runs and posted a 7.63 ERA. Among relievers with at least 10 appearances this season, his .424 opponents’ wOBA is fourth-worst in the Majors. The only three relievers among that group with a worse opponents’ wOBA were Bryan Abreu (Astros), David Morgan (Padres), and Phil Maton (Cubs).

Additionally, the Braves optioned JR Ritchie to Triple-A and recalled Victor Mederos from Triple-A Gwinnett.

Lewis demoted, Topa released

The Twins released Justin Topa and optioned Royce Lewis to Triple-A St. Paul.

We’ll start with Lewis, who slashed .163/.261/.279 over 119 plate appearances this season. Lewis got 2026 off with a bang, as he hit two home runs in his first three games of the year. However, he had just one since then and a cumulative Whiff% of 37.6%.

Topa, meanwhile, ended last season as a late-inning option for the Twins. However, Topa conceded 27 hits and walked 11 over 19 innings. His .420 opponents’ wOBA was fifth-worst, right behind the aforementioned Bummer.

Nationals recall Crews

The Nationals shook up their roster, as Andres Chaparro and Dylan Crews were recalled from the Minors. Meanwhile, Brady House and Joey Wiemer were optioned to Triple-A.

Joey Wiemer gets the short end of the stick in a crowded outfield for the Nationals. Wiemer hit well with a .939 OPS for the Nats. However, he makes room for Crews, who was optioned to the Minors in March.

Recalls & options

Jhostynxon Garcia (Pirates), Travis Adams (Twins), Codi Heuer (Guardians), and Chase Lee (Blue Jays) were recalled from Triple-A.

Cameron Foster (Orioles) and Gavin Collyer (Rangers) were optioned to Triple-A.

Other moves

Orlando Arcia and Alex Jackson had their contracts selected from Triple-A by the Twins.

Albert Suarez is back for the Orioles, as Baltimore selected his contract.

Maverick Handley (Orioles) and Austin Slater (Mets) were designated for assignment.