Athletics Select Ben Bowden

The Athletics have selected left-hander Ben Bowden from Triple-A. In a corresponding move, right-hander Luis Morales has been optioned to Las Vegas. The A’s announced both moves before their game this evening against the Tigers. They have not yet announced a corresponding move to make room on their 40-man roster.

Bowden, now 31, made his MLB debut for the Rockies in 2021. In 39 games of mostly low-leverage relief, the southpaw put up a 6.56 ERA and 4.56 SIERA. He failed to make Colorado’s roster out of spring training the next season, and the Rays claimed him off waivers in April 2022. After that, he bounced from the Giants to the Phillies to the Braves, pitching for all of their Triple-A affiliates. However, he didn’t make it back to the majors until he signed a minor league contract with the A’s, who called him up to their big league club last summer. In 11 games, he gave up six runs (five earned) in 10 2/3 innings of work, striking out seven and walking five. A lat strain forced him to the IL in August, ultimately ending his comeback season.

Although the Athletics cut Bowden last November, the two sides quickly agreed on a new minor league contract. The lefty has made 32 appearances for the Las Vegas Aviators this year, with a 5.40 ERA and 4.59 xERA. He has struck out 28.7% of his opponents, but he has also given up nine home runs in just 36 2/3 innings.

Morales gave up 11 runs (10 earned) over 6 2/3 innings in two games following his latest promotion. He will head back to Triple-A, while Bowden will give the A’s a fresh new arm for their bullpen.