Ryan Weathers Details Reason Why Padres Sent Him to AAA

After a few weeks in Triple-A, Padres LHP Ryan Weathers is back in the major leagues and will make his fourth start of the 2023 season on Sunday against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Weathers' option to Triple-A in late April was a surprise as he pitched well for the Friars. 

The 23-year-old spoke to the media on Saturday and told San Diego Tribune's Jeff Sanders that he understood the move to the minors and is willing to do what he can to help the team. 

“I knew it was in the best interest for me and the team,” Weathers said Saturday afternoon. “It was a real good conversation. It wasn’t like a performance standpoint or a demotion of any sort. Just at the time, the team really needed some length and for me and my career it was better for me to get more regular innings. …

In five games for the Padres, Weathers went 1-1 with a 2.50 ERA, 11 strikeouts, and a 1.11 WHIP in 18 innings. Weathers was moved up to start on Sunday as Padres RHP Michael Wacha was set to start. Wacha will now pitch on Monday, as the Padres are trying to give their starters an "extra" day whenever it's possible to do. 

The southpaw knew he would be back in the majors, and he didn't spend that much time out of it. He only pitched in two games, allowing only three hits, zero runs, and zero home runs in eight innings. 

It's nice to have Weathers back in the rotation, and hopefully, he's here to stay for good.