Athletics' Jacob Lopez Diagnosed with Forearm Tightness, Expected to Miss Extended Time

Jacob Lopez, a standout rookie pitcher for the Athletics, is facing concerns over left forearm tightness that has affected his recent performances, including a rough outing against the Mariners where he allowed nine runs in two innings. This soreness dates back to his previous start in Minnesota and has raised fears of a significant injury, though Lopez has indicated this discomfort feels different from his prior experience that required Tommy John surgery. Manager Mark Kotsay has confirmed Lopez will be reevaluated soon, with uncertainty surrounding his availability for the remainder of the season. Lopez has been impressive this year, boasting one of the lowest ERAs among rookies and ranking highly in strikeouts and wins, making any extended absence a major setback for the Athletics. Meanwhile, the San Francisco Giants are also managing arm issues with closer Randy Rodriguez sidelined due to right arm soreness, which has opened the door for Ryan Walker to earn more save opportunities. Rodriguez’s performance has dipped in August despite strong season stats, highlighting the impact of arm health on key bullpen roles.