Starting pitcher Ryan Weathers, who struggled across 11 games this season, is making a return to the big leagues Saturday, when he is expected to start in one of the Padres' two games against Philadelphia.
In nine starts and two relief appearances for the Padres, the 23-year-old posted a 6.08 ERA and a 1-5 record. Weathers played a significant role both in the bullpen and as a starter in 2021, appearing in 30 games and holding a 5.32 ERA as a rookie. His only time in the majors in 2022 came in a 3.2 inning performance in which he let up 4 earned runs.
Weathers was sent to Triple-A El-Paso after a 1.2 inning, 6 ER performance against the Cleveland Guardians in mid-June. The right-handed pitcher said he has been monitoring the improvements he has made in each type of pitch he throws.
"My fastball stayed the same, [velocity] has kinda been up a little bit more, switched the change up a little bit, sweeper's been getting better."
(Via 97.3 The Fan)
After a less-than-ideal start to his 2023 campaign, Weathers hopes that his time in the minors will aid him in his return to the big leagues.
"[I'm] kinda getting back to my old self," Weathers said. "Started getting deeper into games, saw the punchouts go up, ready to rock n' roll tomorrow."
(Via 97.3 The Fan)
According to Rotowire, Saturday will serve as a spot start for Weathers, who will likely return to El Paso immediately after the game.
With a less-than-impressive resume in the majors so far, Weathers will be looking to make a name for himself against Philadelphia.
More must-reads: