In a significant roster move, the Athletics have secured the services of left-handed pitcher Jose Suarez from the Seattle Mariners. This transaction, finalized on a recent Thursday, involved cash considerations being sent to the Mariners, while the Athletics opted to designate outfielder Junior Perez for assignment. The strategic acquisition aims to bolster the Athletics' pitching depth, bringing a seasoned southpaw to their bullpen rotation.
Oakland Athletics Bolster Pitching Ranks with Jose Suarez Acquisition
On Thursday, May 14, 2026, the Oakland Athletics officially announced the acquisition of left-handed pitcher Jose Suarez from the Seattle Mariners. The trade involved the Athletics sending an undisclosed amount of cash considerations to the Mariners. Concurrently, the Athletics designated 24-year-old outfielder Junior Perez for assignment, sending him to their Triple-A affiliate, the Las Vegas Aviators.
Jose Suarez, a 28-year-old southpaw, has had a busy season, pitching for both the Mariners and the Atlanta Braves. His combined statistics for the current season show a 0-1 record with one save and an earned run average (ERA) of 6.38 across nine appearances, including one start. Prior to his brief stint with the Mariners, where he made one relief appearance without a decision, Suarez posted a 0-1 record with one save and a 6.61 ERA in eight outings for the Braves. Throughout his major league career, which began in 2019, Suarez has accumulated a record of 22-30 with three saves and a 5.34 ERA over 115 appearances, 63 of which were starts, playing for the Los Angeles Angels (2019-24), the Braves (2025-26), and the Mariners. The Mariners had initially claimed Suarez off waivers on May 3.
Meanwhile, Junior Perez, a developing outfielder, had been playing for Triple-A Las Vegas this season. In 36 games with the Aviators, Perez maintained a .210 batting average, contributing five home runs and driving in 19 runs.
This move signifies the Athletics' ongoing efforts to fine-tune their roster, particularly in strengthening their pitching staff. Suarez's experience across multiple teams could offer a valuable asset to the Athletics' bullpen, providing a left-handed option with a track record in the league. For Perez, this reassignment offers an opportunity for continued development and refinement of his skills in the minor league system.
This trade underscores the dynamic nature of professional baseball, where teams continuously evaluate and adjust their rosters to optimize performance. The Athletics' decision to bring in Suarez reflects a strategic move to enhance their pitching capabilities, while the assignment of Perez indicates a focus on fostering talent within their minor league system. Such transactions are crucial for team building and aiming for competitive success throughout the season.
