Marlins Make Roster Change Ahead of Athletics Series Opener

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Marlins Make Roster Change Ahead of Athletics Series Opener

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Jul 3, 2026 1:43 PM ET

The Miami Marlins made a pitching change ahead of Friday night's series opener against the Athletics , recalling right-hander Will Kempner from Triple-A Jacksonville while optioning right-hander Ryan Gusto.

The move, first reported by MLB.com's Christina De Nicola, gives Miami a fresh bullpen arm as the club opens a road series at Sutter Health Park.

Kempner, 25, returns after making an impressive first impression in the majors this season. Acquired from the San Francisco Giants in January 2025, the right-hander debuted with Miami on May 5 and has allowed no runs across nine innings over six relief appearances.

#Marlins will be recalling Will Kempner and optioning Ryan Gusto ahead of tonight’s series opener vs. the A’s.
— Christina De Nicola (@CDeNicola13) July 3, 2026

The former third-round pick in the 2022 MLB Draft has also struck out 10 hitters while posting a 0.56 WHIP, giving the Marlins another dependable option at the back of the bullpen.

Gusto, 27, heads back to Jacksonville after appearing in eight games, including six starts, for Miami this season. He posted a 0-2 record with a 5.55 ERA across 24 1/3 innings while recording 20 strikeouts.

The roster move reflects the Marlins' continued effort to manage their pitching staff as they remain in the National League Wild Card race.

Miami Marlins manager Clayton McCullough (86)Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Miami entered Friday with a 46-42 record, sitting third in the National League East before beginning its series against the Athletics. Tyler Phillips is scheduled to start the opener opposite Oakland right-hander Jack Perkins.

Kempner's return provides manager Clayton McCullough with another rested bullpen option after the rookie impressed during his first stint in the major leagues. If he continues to pitch as effectively as he has so far, he could secure a more permanent role in Miami's relief corps during the second half of the season.

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

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