CHICAGO (AP) — Kyle Harrison is taking on a new role as he rejoins the San Francisco Giants.
Harrison has been added to the Giants’ bullpen for their three-game series against the Chicago Cubs. The left-hander, regarded as one of the organization’s top prospects, had started all 106 of his previous professional appearances.
“We’ve told him to be ready to pitch,” said Giants manager Bob Melvin before Monday night’s 9-2 loss to the Cubs. “Our message is simple — if you pitch well and perform, you can earn your way back, even if it’s not in your previous role. He’s open to any opportunity and ready to contribute.”
Harrison, 23, earned a promotion following Sunday’s 9-3 win against Colorado, with right-hander Lou Trivino being designated for assignment to make room.
Drafted by San Francisco in the third round of the 2020 MLB Draft, Harrison has made 31 starts for the Giants over the past two seasons, posting an 8-8 record and a 4.47 ERA.
He was a candidate for the fifth spot in the starting rotation during spring training but was held back early on due to illness. As a result, he was sent down to Triple-A Sacramento on March 22.
Harrison experienced a drop in velocity, but according to manager Bob Melvin, he seemed to regain his rhythm during his time in the minors. While with Triple-A Sacramento, Harrison recorded a 1-0 record and a 3.46 ERA over six starts.
“He was under the weather for a while, and spring training didn’t go smoothly for him,” Melvin explained. “At one point, the numbers just weren’t there. But he showed patience and understood that it would take time to bounce back — and in his most recent outings, he’s done just that.”
Harrison’s promotion gives the Giants a second left-handed option in the bullpen alongside Erik Miller.
As for Lou Trivino, the 33-year-old posted a 5.84 ERA across 11 appearances this season. He threw a scoreless inning with two hits allowed against Colorado on Sunday.
“There will be opportunities for Lou elsewhere,” Melvin said. “Given how our bullpen was performing, he wasn’t getting consistent work or the types of roles he’s used to.”
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