2026 Transactions: Garrett & Matthews Recalled, A’s DFA Perez

Matt Wallner’s strikeout numbers have never been low throughout his MLB career. But after a .167/.259/.292 start to 2026, Wallner will receive a reset, as he was demoted to Triple-A. The Twins, though, did bring up some pitching reinforcements, as Zebby Matthews was recalled.

Garrett & Matthews back in Majors

The Twins recalled Zebby Matthews on May 14. Marliners pitcher Braxton Garrett was, as well, and the two faced off with one another at a matinee in Target Field.

Matthews, who did not make the Twins’ team out of camp, struck out 33 over 34 innings with Triple-A St. Paul. He tossed seven scoreless against the Marlins on the 14th.

As for Garrett, he got off to a brilliant start in Triple-A after he, too, did not make his big-league club out of camp. The lefty posted a 1.66 ERA with Jacksonville in April. However, he only lasted 1.1 IP in his 2026 MLB debut.

A’s acquire Suarez, DFA Perez

The Athletics acquired left-hander Jose Suarez in a trade with the Mariners on May 14. Seattle acquired cash in the trade.

Suarez struck out 24 over 18 innings this season at the MLB level in relief. However, he had an ERA north of 6.00.

In a corresponding move, the Athletics designated outfielder Junior Perez for assignment. Perez earned himself a spot on the Athletics’ 40-man roster in November after a blistering year in Double-A and Triple-A, one that saw him hit 26 combined home runs and post the best Barrel% (16.5%) in the Pacific Coast League.

But this season, Perez slashed .210/.273/.384 and led the PCL in total strikeouts (51).

Recalls & options

Ryan Kreidler (Twins), Tanner Gordon (Rockies), and Jhonny Pereda (Mariners) were recalled from Triple-A.

Matt Wallner (Twins), Travis Adams (Twins), Josh Ekness (Marlins), and Josh Simpson (Mariners) were optioned to Triple-A.

Other moves

Mariners reliever Jose A. Ferrer was activated off the paternity list.

The Reds sent catcher P.J. Higgins outright to Triple-A Louisville.