San Francisco Giants option Ryan Walker and activate Joel Kuhnel
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 5, 2026, 8:13 PM
Last updated Sep 5, 2026
The San Francisco Giants optioned relief pitcher Ryan Walker to Triple-A Sacramento on September 5, 2026. This move follows a series of struggles for the right-hander, who began the season as the team's closer but has since posted a 7.16 ERA across 33 appearances. The Giants recalled Joel Kuhnel, a reliever recently claimed off waivers, to take Walker's spot on the active roster for the ongoing series against the New York Mets. Walker has been optioned to the minors three times this season as the team continues to search for reliable production in the ninth inning. Rookie Dylan Smith is expected to receive further opportunities to anchor the bullpen as the Giants conclude their season with a 58-84 record.
- •Ryan Walker was optioned to Triple-A Sacramento on September 5, 2026.
- •Joel Kuhnel joins the active roster for the current series against the New York Mets.
- •Walker recorded three saves and five holds over 33 appearances this season.
- •The Giants hold a 58-84 record as the organization evaluates its bullpen options.
- 8:13 PMYahoo Sports — Giants Demote Former Closer to Minors During Mets Series
"The San Francisco Giants will make a roster move concerning their bullpen. Alex Pavlovic of NBC Sports reports that Ryan Walker has been optioned to Triple-A Sacramento. Joel Kuhnel, whom the Giants recently claimed off waivers, is active for their game against the New York Mets. Kuhnel is active today, Ryan Walker was optioned: https://t.co/TLyA2g2n1x […] The post Giants Demote Former Closer to Minors During Mets Series appeared first on HEAVY.
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