Marlins Demote Player Ahead of Padres Series

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Marlins Demote Player Ahead of Padres Series

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Jul 24, 2026 3:42 PM ET

The Miami Marlins made a bullpen move ahead of Friday's series opener against the San Diego Padres, optioning right-hander Zach Brzykcy to Triple-A Jacksonville. The move clears an active roster spot as Miami looks to stabilize its relief corps during a difficult stretch.

In a corresponding move, the Marlins reinstated left-handed reliever John King from the 15-day injured list. King returns after missing just over two weeks with a left lateral ankle sprain suffered during fielding practice.

Brzykcy appeared in five games during his latest stint with Miami, allowing four earned runs across 5 1/3 innings. The Marlins will give the right-hander an opportunity to regain consistency with Triple-A Jacksonville.

We’ve made the following roster moves: pic.twitter.com/pqO2QAcI5C
— Miami Marlins (@Marlins) July 24, 2026

King returns after posting a 3.44 ERA and 1.21 WHIP across 34 innings before landing on the injured list. His return gives manager Clayton McCullough another experienced left-handed option as the bullpen continues to deal with injuries.

The roster move comes with the Marlins trying to halt a nine-game losing streak after an 0-6 road trip. Miami enters the weekend at 52-51, sitting third in the National League East and looking to remain in the Wild Card race.

Miami Marlins manager Clayton McCullough (86)Rafael Suanes-Imagn Images

The visiting Padres also arrive needing momentum after dropping five of their last seven games since the All-Star break. Both clubs are searching for a strong start to the second half as the trade deadline approaches.

For Miami, activating King provides an immediate boost to a bullpen that has been stretched by injuries, while Brzykcy will continue his development in Triple-A with hopes of earning another opportunity later this season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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