SF Giants place LHP Jarlin Garcia on IL, promote INF Jason Vosler

The SF Giants announced a pair of roster moves before their game against the Marlins on Saturday, placing left-handed reliever Jarlin Garcia on the injured with a left groin strain and recalled infielder Jason Vosler from the alternate site. Assuming Vosler appears in a game, he will make his big-league debut.

The Giants infield has been depleted over the past week. While Donovan Solano was placed on the injured list, other everyday players Evan Longoria, Brandon Crawford, and Brandon Belt have been banged up as well. With the emergence of young pitchers Gregory Santos and Camilo Doval in the bullpen, president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi likely faced less pressure to find another pitcher when Garcia suffered an injury.

The SF Giants promoted Jason Vosler and placed Jarlin Garcia on the IL.

Vosler was a notable offseason signing. While he had never played at the major-league level, the Giants signed him to a big-league contract. A 16th round selection by the Cubs in 2014, Vosler got off to a quiet start as a professional. However, with the Padres Triple-A affiliate in 2019, Vosler hit .291/.367/.532. He was particularly lethal against right-handed pitchers, batting .300/.371/.563 and blasting 19 of his 20 home runs.

A left-handed-hitting infielder, Vosler was developed at third base but has experience around the diamond at first and second. He looked destined for an Opening Day roster spot after a strong start to spring training but slumped as the regular season approach finishing the preseason with a mediocre .275/.296/.392 triple-slash.

Garcia was one of the Giants’ most consistent relievers in 2020 but has struggled to replicate that success this year. In 5 appearances, the southpaw has completed 6.1 innings and struck out 9, but surrendered 5 walks, 4 hits (2 home runs), and recorded an 8.53 ERA (7.20 FIP). Obviously, a groin injury could explain some of his early-season woes.

The SF Giants infield depth has very quickly been tested. Luckily, the emergence of multiple young relievers may have made it easier for the front office to place southpaw Jarlin Garcia on the injured list to call up infielder Jason Vosler.