T. J. Mcfarland
YEARTEAMGGSCGSHOWLSIPHitsERSOBBHRERA
2014Trolleys00000000.0000000.00
2015Trolleys2200001031.117871322.30
2018Old Geezers00000000.0000000.00
2019Old Geezers4400053059.042251136123.81
2020Old Geezers50000008.21065836.23
2022Samurai3600022233.2251071132.67
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Nov 7 2024McFarland signed a one-year contract with the Athletics on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland put up a 3.81 ERA and 1.24 WHIP over 56.2 innings last year and tallied 19 holds while pitching in high-leverage situations fairly often. He's likely to retain a similar role in his second year with the A's, though opportunities for saves will be limited as long as Mason Miller is still on the team.
Sep 13 2024McFarland (2-3) took the loss against the Astros on Thursday, allowing two earned runs on two hits over one-third of an inning. He did not walk or strike out a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland was the next man in following Mitch Spence's seven-inning quality start, but the veteran southpaw allowed back-to-back singles after retiring Yordan Alvarez to open the frame. McFarland would get the hook at that point and see the two runners eventually cross the plate and snap a 2-2 tie, saddling him with the loss. The 35-year-old had last allowed an earned run Aug. 28 prior to Thursday, and despite the stumble, he still carries a 3.78 ERA and 1.22 WHIP across a career-high 72 appearances (52.1 innings).
Sep 8 2024McFarland (2-2) took the loss and a blown save against the Tigers on Saturday, allowing two unearned runs on a hit and a walk over one-third of an inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland authored a messy start to a seventh-inning stint that started with the Athletics up 1-0, allowing a single and a walk to two of the first three batters he faced. Both would eventually come around to score, although McFarland was on the mound only for the first run, and a throwing error by Zack Gelof on the leadoff hit also kept both runs unearned. McFarland had last qualified for a decision -- a victory in that instance -- back on Aug. 7, and he still holds a 1.29 ERA and 1.00 WHIP over the 14 innings he's pitched in the second half of the season.
Aug 8 2024McFarland (2-1) got the win against the White Sox on Wednesday, firing a scoreless seventh inning during which he allowed a hit and recorded a strikeout. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland was particularly sharp during his one frame, locating nine of 11 pitches for strikes and comfortably navigating around the infield single he allowed. The veteran left-hander was then the beneficiary of Oakland's three-run rally in the bottom of the seventh, which put McFarland in line for his first win since April 28. The scoreless appearance was also the fifth consecutive for McFarland, who boasts Wednesday's win, two holds and a 1.59 ERA over his last eight trips to the mound overall.
Jul 1 2024McFarland (1-1) took the loss against the Diamondbacks on Sunday, allowing three earned runs on a hit, a hit batsman and a walk over one-third of an inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland's outing was about as messy as his final line implies, with the left-hander immediately working himself into trouble upon entering in the seventh inning with the game knotted at 1-1. McFarland hit Randal Grichuk to open the frame and subsequently yielded a double to Corbin Carroll and intentionally walked Ketel Marte before exiting. Austin Adams would allow all three inherited runners to score, saddling McFarland with the first runs on his ledger since June 6. Despite the stumble, McFarland was impressive throughout most of June, putting together nine consecutive scoreless appearances (6.1 innings) with three holds prior to Sunday.
Jun 20 2024McFarland recorded his ninth hold in a win over the Royals on Wednesday, retiring the only batter he faced. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland closed out the sixth inning for Luis Medina by retiring Adam Frazier on a flyout to left that left Nick Loftin stranded at first base. The veteran southpaw reliever has been outstanding since early May, recording a 1.17 ERA, 0.85 WHIP and four holds across 15.1 innings over his last 18 appearances. However, the fact he's typically used in middle relief usually limits McFarland to the occasional hold opportunity and leaves him with minimal fantasy appeal.
Apr 29 2024McFarland (1-0) got the win against the Orioles on Sunday, firing a perfect eighth inning during which he recorded two strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland's dominant eighth frame saw him locate eight of 10 pitches for strikes, a particularly impressive display of efficiency. The veteran southpaw has had a couple of stumbles overall, but McFarland has mostly been a reliable bullpen workhorse for manager Mark Kotsay. Factoring in Sunday's appearance, he's already logged 11.1 innings across 16 appearances, posting a 3.97 ERA and recording four holds in addition to his one victory.
Mar 26 2024The Athletics acquired McFarland from the Dodgers on Tuesday in exchange for cash considerations and selected his contract from Triple-A Las Vegas. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's quite the team downgrade for McFarland, but he'll likely take it since he gets to join a major-league roster. The veteran reliever made just three appearances at the big-league level in 2023, allowing one earned run over 1.2 innings with the Mets.
Jul 14 2023The Mets designated McFarland for assignment Friday, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Jose Quintana returning from the 60-day injured list Friday, McFarland will be cast off the team to free up a spot on the 40-man roster. The 34-year-old lefty pitched just 1.2 innings during his time in New York, allowing one run and striking out two batters. He's been solid in Triple-A, so it's possible another team claims McFarland off waivers.
Jun 26 2023The Mets selected McFarland's contract from Triple-A Syracuse on Monday, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland will get his first look in the majors this year after working to a 2.76 ERA with 37 strikeouts through 32.2 innings of relief at Syracuse. Josh Walker has been optioned out in a corresponding roster move.
Mar 26 2023The Mets reassigned McFarland to minor-league camp Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran left-hander signed with New York as a non-roster invitee in January but struggled during spring training with six runs allowed over eight innings. McFarland appeared in 28 games for the Cardinals last season and pitched similarly poorly with a 6.61 ERA and 16:11 K:BB in 32.2 frames.
Aug 15 2022McFarland was released by the Cardinals on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After he was designated for assignment Wednesday, McFarland was released outright two days later. The reliever has produced a 6.61 ERA and 1.62 WHIP with 16 strikeouts over 32.2 frames in 28 appearances with the Cardinals this year. McFarland is now free to sign with whatever team he wants moving forward.
Aug 10 2022The Cardinals designated McFarland for assignment Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Given that the left-handed McFarland has yielded a .354 average and .542 slugging percentage to opposing left-handed hitters this season, the Cardinals' decision to cut bait with him isn't an overly surprising one. St. Louis summoned Jake Woodford from Triple-A Memphis to replace him in the bullpen.
Jul 11 2022McFarland (illness) was reinstated from the COVID-19 injured list Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland landed in the league's health and safety protocols in late June but will rejoin the Cardinals' bullpen after spending just under three weeks away from the team. He made three rehab appearances at Triple-A Memphis over the last few days and allowed a hit and no walks while striking out three in three scoreless innings.
Jul 8 2022McFarland (illness) begin a rehab assignment at Triple-A Memphis on Wednesday, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland struck out one in a perfect inning during Wednesday's outing, and he'll make his second rehab appearance Friday. Assuming the southpaw feels good following Friday's appearance, it seems likely that he'll be back in action in the coming days.
Jul 4 2022McFarland (illness) is expected to throw a bullpen session Wednesday, John Denton of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland has been out since June 22, though he cleared the COVID-19 protocols a week later. The southpaw is likely to need a rehab assignment with Triple-A Memphis after his bullpen session, so it's unlikely he's activated until the weekend.
Jun 29 2022McFarland (illness) was spotted in the Cardinals clubhouse Wednesday, suggesting that he's no longer symptomatic of COVID-19 and has cleared all protocols, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland remains on the COVID-19-related injured list and will likely need at least a few days to regain conditioning and ramp up his throwing program before being activated. The veteran lefty reliever posted a 7.43 ERA and 1.76 WHIP across 26.2 innings with St. Louis before being deactivated June 22.
Jun 26 2022Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said McFarland (illness) has yet to clear all COVID-19-related protocols and thus hasn't resumed working out, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Marmol noted that McFarland is feeling better since landing on the COVID-19-related injured list Wednesday, so he could be cleared to begin ramping up within the next few days. The lefty reliever posted a 7.43 ERA, 1.76 WHIP and 16:8 K:BB across 26.2 innings this season prior to landing on the IL.
Jun 22 2022McFarland was placed on the injured list without a designation Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Since the Cardinals didn't provide a reason for placing McFarland on the injured list, he's likely on the COVID-19 IL. Assuming that's the case, the southpaw will be eligible to rejoin the team as soon as he clears the league's health and safety protocols. His return timetable depends on whether he's tested positive for COVID-19, but right-hander Junior Fernandez was recalled to take his place in the bullpen.
Jun 13 2022McFarland struck out one without allowing a baserunner in 1.1 innings during Monday's 7-5 win over the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland appeared to be set for mop-up work when he entered the game in the sixth inning with the Cardinals down 5-0, but they tied it up in their half of the frame. He got one more out before turning the ball over to Giovanny Gallegos. McFarland has had few bright spots lately, giving up 15 runs and 24 hits across his last 14 innings, but he was effective Monday in his second straight scoreless appearance. The southpaw has a 7.40 ERA, 1.77 WHIP and 15:8 K:BB across 24.1 innings as a low-leverage option this season.
May 29 2022McFarland allowed two hits and struck out one in 1.2 innings during Sunday's 8-0 loss to the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland has given up 12 runs in 13 innings in May, keeping runs off the board in just seven of his 11 appearances. He's posted a 7.23 ERA, 1.71 WHIP and 12:6 K:BB across 18.2 innings in 17 outings overall. Given his inconsistent pitching, the southpaw is likely to be limited to low-leverage assignments.
May 18 2022McFarland allowed five runs on four hits and a walk in one inning during Wednesday's 11-4 loss to the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland was tasked with the eighth inning, entering with the Cardinals down just two runs. He wasn't very effective, allowing the Mets to rally for five runs, capped off by a three-run blast from Pete Alonso before finishing off the frame. McFarland has allowed 10 runs in 7.1 innings in May, and his good start to the year is but a memory now. He owns a 9.00 ERA, 1.85 WHIP, 7:5 K:BB and one hold through 13 innings.
Apr 25 2022McFarland pitched two perfect innings and struck out one in Sunday's 4-1 loss to the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland entered in a jam in the sixth inning, but he induced a double play to get out of danger without allowing inherited runners from Adam Wainwright to score. McFarland then made quick work in the seventh. This was his first clean outing of the year -- he's allowed five hits and two walks with three strikeouts across five scoreless innings to begin the season. The southpaw figures to stay in a multi-inning role, though he's picked up a hold in four appearances.
Apr 4 2022McFarland will be on the Cardinals' Opening Day roster, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland's first year in St. Louis went well -- he put up a 2.56 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, 4-1 record and 15 holds in 38 appearances. The southpaw figures to resume a middle-relief role in 2022. He's been historically strong at limiting home runs, posting a 3.4 GB/FB rate in 2021, though his 3.78 FIP last season suggests he could regress this year.
Nov 8 2021McFarland re-signed with the Cardinals on a one-year deal Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland was a useful left-handed option out of the bullpen for the Cardinals last season. His excellent 63.7 percent groundball rate helped him to a 2.56 ERA despite a very low 14.6 percent strikeout rate. That lack of whiffs means he's ill-suited for a ninth-inning role, however, as evidenced by his one career save in nine MLB seasons, so he's unlikely to have much fantasy value in most formats.
Oct 4 2021McFarland posted a 1-0 record and five holds over the nine innings covering his last 10 regular-season appearances. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran also blew a save opportunity and posted a 5.00 ERA and 1.44 WHIP in that span, hinting at occasional trouble. However, McFarland was still mostly impressive throughout that stretch, giving up more than one earned run just once and tossing six scoreless outings as well. The left-hander enjoyed a fantasy-friendly campaign overall that included a 4-1 record, 2.56 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 15 holds across 38.2 innings over 38 appearances.
Sep 14 2021McFarland secured his ninth hold in a win over the Mets on Monday, allowing one hit over a scoreless seventh inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland saw action for the fourth time in the last five days, an especially busy stretch during which he's generated three scoreless appearances and three holds overall. The veteran left-hander has boosted his fantasy stock nicely down the stretch, and he's now worked his ERA down to 1.95 following Monday's outing.
Sep 10 2021McFarland (3-1) allowed two earned runs on two hits over one inning to take the loss against the Reds on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Just 24 hours after extending his scoreless streak to 18 appearances while garnering his seventh hold in a win over the Dodgers, McFarland saw his run come to an end and took his first loss of the season in the process. The left-hander was only able to retire one of the first four batters he faced in the ninth inning, failing to preserve a 2-2 tie and allowing the game's final two runs. Despite the stumble, McFarland should continue to see his fair share of hold opportunities over the balance of the regular season.
Sep 6 2021McFarland recorded his sixth hold in a loss to the Brewers on Sunday, firing two-thirds scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland needed exactly two pitches to record both his outs and close out the sixth inning. The veteran southpaw continues on an extended roll that's seen him coax his ERA and WHIP down to 1.52 and 0.93, respectively, while posting 17 consecutive scoreless appearances.
Aug 30 2021McFarland secured his fourth hold in a loss to the Pirates on Sunday, firing 1.2 scoreless innings during which he allowed no hits and one walk while also recording a strikeout. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland lowered his ERA to a sparkling 1.71 with Sunday's effort, his 14th consecutive scoreless outing. The 32-year-old's recent form coupled with his ability to work multiple frames on occasion makes him an increasingly valuable relief asset as the season enters its stretch run.
Aug 25 2021McFarland (3-0) pitched a scoreless, hitless inning 10th inning while walking a batter, earning the win in Wednesday's 3-2, extra-inning victory over the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The lefty has excelled in 12 appearances this month, pitching 12 scoreless innings of relief with eight strikeouts, two wins and two holds. Alex Reyes, Giovanny Gallegos and Genesis Cabrera are the Cardinals' primary, high-leverage options, but McFarland's scoreless month to date suggests he's leapt up the bullpen depth chart and may take opportunities from Andrew Miller and Luis Garcia going forward.
Aug 13 2021McFarland (2-0) allowed no hits and a walk in a scoreless third inning to earn the win over the Pirates on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland has performed quite well in the month of August, as he's allowed a hit and a walk while striking out two in 5.1 scoreless frames across his five appearances since the month began. He entered Thursday's game after starter Wade LeBlanc (elbow) was removed, and he picked up his second win of the year in the 7-6 victory.
Aug 9 2021McFarland, who fired a scoreless eighth inning in a loss to the Royals on Sunday, has an unblemished ERA over the 4.1 innings covering his four August appearances. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran reliever has allowed just one hit and garnered one hold during that span, although he's also rang up just two strikeouts. McFarland has largely proven effective in what are typically lower-leverage scenarios thus far in St. Louis, pitching to a 3.27 ERA and 0.82 WHIP across 11 innings overall (10 appearances).
Jul 23 2021McFarland fired a scoreless eighth inning during which he issued a walk and recorded a strikeout during a win over the Cubs on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran left-hander has quickly taken to his new St. Louis digs, now putting together three straight scoreless appearances and notching both a win and Thursday's hold along the way. McFarland has already made four trips to the mound in less than a week with the Cardinals, which would seem to bode well for fantasy managers who've taken a flyer on him in deep formats.
Jul 21 2021McFarland (1-0) won Wednesday's 3-2 contest with the Cubs, pitching a scoreless 10th while allowing a walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After John Gant permitted a Javier Baez single to lead off the 10th, McFarland entered and induced a momentum-killing double play followed by an intentional walk and a fly out to neutralize the threat. When St. Louis scored in the bottom of the inning, the lefty became the winner. This was McFarland's first win of the season in only his third appearance.
Jul 16 2021McFarland's contract was selected by the Cardinals on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland joined the Cardinals on a split contract at the end of June. He'll give the team another left-handed option out of the bullpen, but he's unlikely to be of much interest in most fantasy formats. It would be a surprise to see him pitching in high-leverage innings, and he gets very few strikeouts, whiffing 13.6 percent of opposing batters over the course of his eight-year career.
Jun 30 2021McFarland agreed to a split contract with the Cardinals on Wednesday, Jesse Dougherty of The Washington Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 32-year-old was granted his release by the Nationals earlier Wednesday, and he apparently had a deal with the Cardinals lined up. McFarland struggled in 18 appearances at Triple-A Rochester with a 5.25 ERA, 1.17 WHIP and 26:5 K:BB over 24 innings. He'll report to Triple-A Memphis for his new organization.
Mar 27 2021McFarland was released by the Nationals on Saturday, Jesse Dougherty of The Washington Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland was in camp as a non-roster invitee but was unable to secure a spot on the Opening Day roster after posting a 3.60 ERA and 1.40 WHIP in 10 innings this spring. He'll now be able to seek out other options as a free agent ahead of the regular season.
Sep 23 2020McFarland, who allowed an earned run on a solo home run and also surrendered one other hit and a walk over one inning in a loss to the Dodgers on Tuesday, now has an 11.37 ERA across the 6.1 innings he's pitched in September. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland came into the month boasting a sparkling 0.68 ERA and 0.98 WHIP on the season, which had rendered him one of the most reliable middle-relief options for manager Bob Melvin to that point. However, those numbers are now a distant memory, as they've ballooned to 3.86 and 1.39, respectively, following his extended stretch of ineffectiveness. McFarland has allowed at least one run in five of the first seven appearances of the month, with the three homers he's yielded over that span pivotal to his poor numbers.
Sep 7 2020McFarland, who allowed an earned run on a hit and a walk over one inning in a loss to the Padres on Sunday, has been scored upon in each of his first two September outings after coming into the month having yielded just one earned run over his first 15 appearances of the season. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland has been one of the most reliable middle-to-later-inning relief options for manager Bob Melvin during what has mostly been a banner year for the Athletics bullpen. However, the veteran southpaw has shown a bit more vulnerability to open September, although he'd been so effective coming into the month that his ERA still sits at an elite 1.76 across 15.1 innings. Despite the recent pair of stumbles, McFarland figures to continue playing an integral role down the stretch as a key left-handed relief option.
Aug 7 2020McFarland was credited with his fourth hold in a win over the Rangers on Thursday, firing a scoreless seventh inning during which he allowed one hit and did not record any walks or strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland has quickly established himself as a middle-to-later-inning option for manager Bob Melvin, with Thursday's outing already marking his fourth appearance in August. The veteran southpaw has yet to allow a run or issue a walk over 5.2 frames, but given he's now worked three consecutive days, McFarland may be unavailable for the early part of the weekend series against the Astros.
Aug 5 2020McFarland (1-0) allowed one hit and struck out one without allowing a run in two-thirds of an inning to earn the win in Wednesday's game versus the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland became the pitcher of record when Austin Allen put the Athletics ahead with a two-run homer in the seventh inning. Through 4.2 innings this season, McFarland has allowed just three hits and struck out two batters without allowing a run. He's been a reliable option in middle relief during his first year in Oakland.
Jul 27 2020McFarland was credited with his first hold of the season in Sunday's win over the Angels, firing a perfect sixth inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander's first regular season in Oakland has gotten off to an encouraging start, as McFarland also handcuffed the trio of Tommy La Stella, Albert Pujols and Jason Castro on 13 pitches in his debut on Opening Night. McFarland's ability to keep the ball down is one of his most appealing attributes to manager Bob Melvin, and fittingly, the 30-year-old has retired five of the first six batters he's faced this season on groundballs.
Apr 17 2020McFarland is viewed as an important left-handed component of the bullpen, particularly due to his ability to induce groundballs, Shayna Rubin of The Mercury News reports. "He's a ground ball guy. You look at those numbers, it's pretty significant, whether it's left or right," manager Bob Melvin said. "And when you're putting together a bullpen this season - and the three-batter minimum, it starts tomorrow - you're looking for lefties who can get right-handers out." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The offseason acquisition recorded an unsightly 6.00 ERA across six innings over six Cactus League appearances before spring training was suspended. Despite the elevated figure, McFarland's profile could make him a good fit if he's used selectively, with Melvin's comments implying the team has already developed a plan to do just that. The 30-year-old's reputation for keeping batted balls down is well-earned, as he's generated a groundball rate of at least 61.1 percent in three consecutive seasons. McFarland has had intermittent success throughout a major-league career that dates back to 2013, but Rubin notes the .313 expected batting average against him last season ranked among the bottom one percentile in the majors.
Mar 11 2020McFarland fired a perfect ninth inning in a Cactus League loss to the Royals on Tuesday, recording two strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran southpaw lowered his spring ERA to 6.00 with the encouraging effort, one that came on the heels of a couple of rough outings. Despite some struggles this spring, Martin Gallegos of MLB.com reports McFarland retains a strong chance of making the Opening Day roster due to the fact he'd serve as a second left-handed option out of the bullpen for manager Bob Melvin, and because the team believes his ground-ball tendencies will dovetail nicely with the pitcher-friendly dimensions of the Oakland Coliseum.
Dec 2 2019McFarland signed a one-year contract with the Athletics worth $1.8 million Monday, avoiding arbitration, Bob Nightengale of USA Today reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 30-year-old was claimed off waivers by the Athletics in November after his option was declined by the Diamondbacks, so it isn't entirely surprising to see him sign a contract with Oakland and avoid arbitration. After posting a stellar 2.00 ERA with a 1.19 WHIP in 2018, McFarland regressed toward the mean with a 4.82 ERA and 1.63 WHIP last year.
Nov 4 2019McFarland was claimed off waivers by Oakland on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland's $1.85 club option was declined by the Diamondbacks, but he evidently wasn't bound for free agency as originally expected. The Athletics will presumably pick up the option as part of the transaction.
Oct 31 2019McFarland's $1.85 million club option was declined by the Diamondbacks on Thursday, making him a free agent. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: McFarland appeared in 51 games last season, posting a 4.82 ERA but only managing a 35:20 K:BB over 56 innings pitched. The 30-year-old would likely remain a middle reliever with another team, and his fantasy value is limited due to his low strikeout rate and lackluster ERA.
Jun 5 2019McFarland allowed three runs on four hits and one walk while striking out three over 2.1 innings in Tuesday's 9-0 loss to the Dodgers.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 23 2018McFarland (neck) was reinstated from the 10-day disabled list Monday.McFarland missed just the minimum 10 days with a neck strain. Silvino Bracho was optioned to Triple-A Reno in a corresponding move.
Jul 21 2018McFarland (neck) is expected to return to the Diamondbacks on Monday, Jack Magruder of The Sports Xchange reports.McFarland isn't expected to miss more than the minimum amount of time with a neck strain. The reliever has posted an excellent 1.81 ERA in 59.2 innings for Arizona so far this season.
Jul 12 2018McFarland was placed on the 10-day DL on Thursday due to a left neck strain.McFarland will be eligible to return from the shelf against the Rockies on July 22. The reliever suffered this injury during Wednesday's game, as he exited the contest after facing just two batters. In his place, Silvino Bracho was recalled from Triple-A Reno.
Jul 11 2018McFarland exited Wednesday's game against the Rockies with neck tightness.McFarland faced just two batters, allowing a double and getting a groundout. The severity of the issue is not yet clear.
Jul 9 2018McFarland tossed four scoreless frames out of the bullpen Sunday in the Diamondbacks' 4-3 loss to the Padres in 16 innings. He ceded two hits and three walks and struck out two.Even though McFarland took on the brunt of the innings in long relief, the Diamondbacks still ended up exhausting their available bullpen options in the marathon loss. With the Diamondbacks pulling McFarland after he tossed 53 pitches, starter Zack Godley was pressed into action to cover the 15th inning before giving way to catcher Jeff Mathis, who worked the 16th and gave up the go-ahead run on a Wil Myers solo shot. McFarland will have Monday's team off day to recover from the extended outing and should technically be available for Tuesday's series opener in Colorado, but don't expect manager Torey Lovullo to turn to the lefty in that contest if he can help it.
Jun 22 2018McFarland pitched a scoreless inning and recorded the save Friday in the Diamondbacks' extra-innings victory.Brad Boxberger had blown the save in the 11th, but after Arizona grabbed a 12-1 lead in the 13th, McFarland faced the minimum in the bottom half to wrap up the marathon. Despite McFarland's sparkling 2.12 ERA, getting these high-leverage spots will not be a frequent occurrence moving forward for the southpaw, who doesn't have a single hold this year and is saved for matchup and mop-up duty in normal games.
Jun 5 2018McFarland was tagged for two runs on three hits in 1.2 innings of relief in Monday's 10-3 loss to the Giants.After yielding only two home runs over his first 35.1 innings of the season, McFarland has now served up long balls in back-to-back appearances, with Nick Hundley taking the lefty deep in the bottom of the eighth inning to put the finishing touches on the Giants' blowout win. Despite the cracks he has shown of late, McFarland has been solid on the whole as a long man out of the Arizona bullpen this season,posting a 2.37 ERA and 1.21 WHIP while working mostly in low-leverage spots.
May 17 2018McFarland covered 2.2 scoreless innings in long relief during the Diamondbacks' 8-2 loss to the Brewers on Thursday. He gave up a walk and a hit and struck out one.McFarland retired eight of the 10 batters he faced in an efficient 40 pitches, sparing Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo from having to overwork his relief corps in the blowout loss. With a 1.46 ERA and 0.97 WHIP across 12.1 innings in his last five appearances, McFarland has been exceptional in long relief of late, though most of his work has come with the outcome of the game already decided. With Robbie Ray (oblique) still on the mend and seemingly unlikely to return by the end of the month, McFarland could get the opportunity to temporarily fill the final spot in Arizona's five-man rotation. The Diamondbacks will next require a fifth starter Tuesday in Milwaukee, so if McFarland goes unused out of the bullpen in the three-game series with the Mets over the weekend, he might be the top candidate to replace Ray.
May 9 2018McFarland covered 1.1 scoreless frames in relief to pick up the win Tuesday in the Diamondbacks' 8-5 triumph over the Dodgers in 12 innings. He struck out one and retired all four batters he faced.McFarland was considered a spot-start candidate for Thursday's series opener against the Nationals with Braden Shipley (elbow) surprisingly joining Robbie Ray (oblique) on the 10-day disabled list Tuesday, but the 16-pitch, four-out appearance probably takes that off the table. If manager Torey Lovullo does tab the lefty for the Thursday start on short rest, it would likely be as part of a bullpen game that would result in McFarland facing a limited pitch count.
Apr 30 2018McFarland is an option to replace Robbie Ray (oblique) in the starting rotation, Zach Buchanan of The Athletic Arizona reports.Ray landed on the disabled list with a Grade 2 oblique strain Monday. McFarland has been solid as a long reliever this season, compiling a 2.25 ERA across 16 innings (eight appearances), so there's a chance manager Torey Lovullo shifts him to a starting role until Ray is ready to return. The Diamondbacks could also opt to turn to their farm if they want to keep McFarland in long-relief role.
Apr 30 2018McFarland covered 4.2 innings of long relief in Sunday's 3-1 loss to the Nationals, giving up three runs (two earned) on five hits and three walks. He struck out one of the 22 batters he faced.With starter Robbie Ray departing midway through the second inning with a right oblique strain, McFarland was called upon from the bullpen on short notice to offer relief. The lack of prep time prior to entering the contest likely hurt McFarland, who saw his nine-inning scoreless streak come to a swift end when he allowed a solo home run to Matt Wieters, the first batter he faced. McFarland settled down over his final three innings, but he was ultimately saddled with loss after the Arizona offense couldn't get much going against the Washington pitching staff. It seems likely that the Diamondbacks will require a replacement for Ray the next time his turn in the rotation comes up Friday against the Astros, but McFarland seems unlikely to warrant any serious consideration for a spot start.
Apr 15 2018McFarland was credited with the win Saturday in the Diamondbacks' 9-1 triumph over the Dodgers after tossing four scoreless innings. He gave up two hits and no walks and struck out a batter.After failing to thwart a Dodgers rally while coming on in relief of starter Zack Greinke in the series opener, McFarland redeemed himself a day later when Taijuan Walker departed after two innings due to right forearm tightness. The lefty tossed 35 of his 59 pitches for strikes, induced eight groundball outs and allowed only two Dodgers to reach scoring position over his four spotless frames. While McFarland is still far down in the bullpen pecking order and will continue to see most of his work in low-leverage spots, Saturday's performance likely increased his security on the Diamondbacks' 40-man roster.
Apr 14 2018McFarland retired one of the three batters he faced and was charged with an earned run in the Diamondbacks' 8-7 win over the Dodgers on Friday.Making just his third appearance of the season and first in 10 days, McFarland was unable to clean up the mess created by starter Zack Greinke in the bottom of the seventh inning. After Greinke was pulled with one out and runners on second and third, McFarland stepped in and generated a groundout, but allowed a pair of run-scoring singles before getting the hook. While both runs went on Greinke's ledger, McFarland was charged for his own run after Archie Bradley let in a run prior to notching the final out of the frame. McFarland will continue to function as a long-relief option for the Diamondbacks, but his workload will likely remain light with the team's rotation members having failed to reach the sixth inning just once in 2018.
Mar 27 2018McFarland appears to have won a spot in the Diamondbacks' Opening Day bullpen after the team reassigned Michael Blazek and Kris Medlen to minor-league camp Monday, Steve Gilbert of MLB.com reports.The three pitchers were vying for one spot in the bullpen as a long reliever, but McFarland was able to hold his competitors at bay after yielding only three earned runs while generating plenty of groundballs over his nine Cactus League innings. McFarland will be the third lefty in the Diamondbacks' bullpen with Andrew Chafin and Jorge De La Rosa on tap to handle the higher-leverage situational work.
Dec 6 2017McFarland signed a one-year deal to come back to the Diamondbacks on Wednesday.McFarland was recently non-tendered by the club at the beginning of the month, but will find his way back into the bullpen after appearing in 43 games for Arizona in 2017. During those outings, he posted a 5.33 ERA and 1.52 WHIP in 54 innings, but held left-handed batters to just a .222 average and only allowed four home runs all year. The southpaw will likely be used in a similar capacity to this past season as a sixth or seventh-inning arm.
Dec 1 2017The Diamondbacks declined to tender McFarland a contract for 2018, Steve Gilbert of MLB.com reports.McFarland rarely misses bats (4.8 K/9 last year), but he keeps the ball on the ground (67 percent groundball rate) and limits the free passes (2.8 BB/9). Those abilities, along with his success against same-handed hitters last season (.233 wOBA), should be more than enough for McFarland to earn a big-league invite to spring training.
Sep 20 2017McFarland tossed a perfect seventh inning and struck out two batters in a 6-2 loss to the Padres on Tuesday.McFarland opened September with holds in his first two appearances of the month, but he's since settled back into lower-leverage work out of the Arizona bullpen. That should be the norm for the rest of the regular season, as McFarland's 5.44 ERA and 1.50 WHIP won't allow manager Torey Lovullo to deploy the lefty with much confidence in key spots.
Sep 1 2017McFarland tossed two scoreless innings out of the bullpen in Thursday's 8-1 win over the Dodgers. He gave up one hit and one walk and struck out a batter.It was McFarland's first appearance since Aug. 20, when he was needed for a spot start against the Twins when Robbie Ray was still on the disabled list with a concussion. With the Diamondbacks' rotation now at full strength and further pitching staff reinforcements to come Friday when rosters expand, McFarland's outings should be limited to mop-up duty in relief during non-competitive games throughout September.
Aug 20 2017McFarland (4-5) allowed seven runs on five hits and two walks while recording just a single out during Sunday's loss to Minnesota.This was McFarland's first start of the season, and he entered with a 10.45 ERA through six relief appearances in August, so Sunday's poor outing shouldn't be overly surprising. Still, it's pretty rare for a starter to fail to pitch out of the first inning. McFarland projects to return to the bullpen, and if he's scheduled for a spot start in the future, fantasy expectations should be kept in check.
Aug 19 2017McFarland will start Sunday's game against the Twins.Braden Shipley was recently scratched from a scheduled start at Triple-A and seemed like a logical candidate for Sunday's start, but it will be McFarland who gets the nod, while Shipley will come up to provide length out of the bullpen. McFarland has posted a 10.45 ERA in August and he hasn't thrown more than 58 pitches in an appearance this season, so expectations should be low.
Aug 2 2017McFarland surrendered a season-high seven runs (six earned) on five hits and two walks over 2.1 innings of relief in Tuesday's 16-4 loss to the Cubs.After the Cubs torched starter Patrick Corbin for eight runs in the first three innings, McFarland temporarily restored order, keeping the home team off the board for the subsequent two frames. However, things unraveled for McFarland in the sixth inning, when he allowed six of the first seven batters to reach base before his night came to an end after Kris Bryant took him to deep to center field for a three-run blast. The rough outing in long relief caused McFarland's season ERA to jump from 2.29 all the way to 3.58.
Jul 29 2017McFarland (4-3) was on the losing end in long relief in Friday's 1-0 loss to the Cardinals, tossing 3.2 innings and giving up one unearned run on three hits. He struck out one batter in the outing.After Robbie Ray took an 108 mile-per-hour line drive to the head in the second inning, McFarland was called upon from the bullpen and did a commendable job in getting the Diamondbacks through the middle innings. An error by Daniel Descalso to lead off the sixth inning proved costly, however, as it allowed Tommy Pham to reach base and ultimately come around to score on a Jedd Gyorko single. Ray isn't certain to be available for his next scheduled start August 3 against the Cubs, but the Diamondbacks would probably go with Triple-A Reno starter Anthony Banda to temporarily enter the rotation rather than having McFarland make a spot start if Ray is forced to the disabled list.
Jul 24 2017McFarland gave up one hit -- a solo home run -- over 1.1 innings in relief in Sunday's 6-2 loss to the Nationals.With a 2.64 ERA and 1.14 WHIP in 30.2 innings this season, McFarland has been serviceable as a long man out of the bullpen for the Diamondbacks, but he's shown some cracks of late. He's given up at least one run in three of his last four appearances, which won't help his case for seeing more usage in higher-leverage spots.
Jul 7 2017McFarland allowed a walkoff single to Chris Taylor in the bottom of the ninth inning as the Diamondbacks fell to the Dodgers by a 5-4 count Thursday.The Diamondbacks entered the ninth inning with a three-run lead, but closer Fernando Rodney completely melted down, allowing all six batters he faced to reach base and conceding three runs before he was mercifully pulled. Tasked with recording all three outs with the bases loaded, McFarland faced a no-win situation and saw the Dodgers come around to score the winning run when Taylor's hit couldn't be corralled by Arizona outfielder Rey Fuentes. Fortunately for McFarland, that run was charged to Rodney and he was able to steer clear of any damage to his sterling 1.78 ERA on the season.
Jun 18 2017McFarland gave up two hits over two scoreless innings during Saturday's 5-1 win over the Phillies. He struck out two batters.McFarland was on the mound for the first time in more than a week after getting roughed up for four runs (three earned) while recording only four outs his last time out June 9 against the Brewers. With the exception of that blowup, McFarland has proven himself as a capable innings eater out of the bullpen, though it's not expected he'll settle into more high-leverage work in the near future. McFarland is carrying a 1.74 ERA and 16:5 K:BB over 20.2 innings on the season.
May 27 2017McFarland pitched a scoreless top of the ninth to capture the win Friday in the Diamondbacks' 4-2 victory over the Brewers in 10 innings. He gave up one walk and struck out a batter.McFarland had a brief stint on the disabled list earlier this month due to an ankle issue, but he returned last weekend and has looked strong in three appearances. The left-hander is expected to work in long relief or low-leverage situations more often than not, so he shouldn't be in line for holds on a regular basis.
May 21 2017McFarland (ankle) was activated off the 10-day disabled list Sunday, Steve Gilbert of MLB.com reports.As expected, McFarland is back with the club just one day after being eligible to come off the disabled list. His activation comes as a corresponding move to Taijuan Walker's placement on the DL due to a blister issue. McFarland has allowed one earned run over five appearances (5.2 IP) in relief this season.
May 20 2017McFarland (ankle) could be activated from the 10-day disabled list Saturday when first eligible, Steve Gilbert of MLB.com reports.Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo hasn't mentioned to reporters that he expects McFarland back for Saturday's game against the Padres, but the fact that the left-hander traveled with the team to San Diego is an indication that his bruised left ankle isn't much of a concern. Once activated, McFarland's usage out of the bullpen would mostly be limited to mop-up duty.
May 10 2017McFarland was placed on the 10-day disabled list Wednesday with a left ankle contusion.McFarland lands on the DL after getting hit in the ankle with a line drive that forced him to leave Tuesday's game. The left-hander has a 1.59 ERA and three strikeouts over 5.2 innings of relief work. Arizona recalled right-hander Zack Godley in a corresponding move.
May 9 2017McFarland exited Tuesday's game against the Tigers after being hit in the left leg by a comebacker, Jack Magruder of FanRagSports.com reports.McFarland came on in relief following Robbie Ray's five inning outing, but was quickly lifted from the game after being struck on the leg by a 106 MPH line drive off the bat of James McCann. We'll await further information in regards to his injury following Tuesday's game.
May 3 2017McFarland picked up the win in relief during Tuesday's 6-3 victory over the Nationals, tossing 1.1 scoreless innings and striking out a batter.McFarland was called upon for his second appearance of the season with the Diamondbacks with two outs in the fifth inning after starter Taijuan Walker needed 117 pitches to record 14 outs. The long reliever was able to record the final out of the inning and then worked a perfect sixth inning to pick up the win after the Diamondbacks reclaimed the lead in the top half of the frame. While it was a quality performance from McFarland, he'll still likely need to put together several strong relief outings in a row before seeing consistent high-leverage work.
Apr 27 2017McFarland's contract was selected from Triple-A Reno on Thursday.McFarland has pitched very well with Reno so far this season, as he's thrown 11 shutout innings over seven games and recorded nine strikeouts. However, his major-league showing with the Orioles was disappointing in 2016. McFarland pitched 24.2 innings across 16 games, during which he posted a 6.93 ERA and 1.74 WHIP.
Mar 3 2017McFarland signed a minor league deal with the Diamondbacks that includes an invite to spring training.The southpaw likely will compete for a bullpen spot but likely will wind up as organizational depth, perhaps with a frequent seat on the shuttle from Triple-A Reno.
Feb 26 2017McFarland cleared release waivers Sunday and was released by the Orioles, Eduardo Encina of the Baltimore Sun reports.The southpaw was released after he cleared his second set of waivers with the Orioles on Sunday, and now he will enter free agency. It's likely Baltimore will try to bring him back on a minor league deal, but they will be competing with the other 29 teams in doing so.
Feb 25 2017McFarland cleared outright waivers Friday and will now be placed on release waivers, Roch Kubatko of MASN Sports reports.If the southpaw is able to clear this second set of waivers, the Orioles will likely try to sign him for less than the $685,000 he is owed. After agreeing to a one-year contract earlier this winter, Baltimore released McFarland to make room for the signing of Vidal Nuno last week. As of now, he faces an uncertain future, but could certainly compete for a bullpen role on a variety of teams.
Feb 15 2017McFarland is a candidate to temporarily replace Chris Tillman (shoulder) in the O's rotation to open 2017, SB Nation reports.Initial reports suggest Tillman won't be on the shelf long, but the left-handed McFarland could have a chance to put himself on the team's radar for more starts later in the year. He's made 121 appearances in his four-year career (4.27 ERA and 1.55 WHIP in 198.1 innings), yet only two of those outings have been as a starter. McFarland has experience in a rotation, though, as he started 129 games in the minors since 2008. The 27-year-old McFarland will be the underdog in the position battle against Mike Wright and Tyler Wilson.
Jan 12 2017McFarland agreed to a one-year, $685,000 deal with the Orioles on Thursday, avoiding arbitration, Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports reports.The Orioles will bring back the lefty long reliever on a discount for 2017. McFarland was shuttled between Triple-A Norfolk and the Orioles in the early portion of the season before suffering a knee injury shortly before the All-Star break. He was not particularly sharp during his stops with the Orioles, however, notching a 6.93 ERA and a 1.74 WHIP over 24.2 innings. Aside from closer Zach Britton, the Orioles only have Jayson Aquino in the bullpen in terms of left-handed options, which aids McFarland's chances at breaking camp with the team.
Aug 29 2016McFarland was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk on Monday, Jon Meoli of the Baltimore Sun reports.McFarland had been designated for assignment Sunday, but the procedural change to being optioned will keep the left-handed reliever on the 40-man roster. He's struggled to the tune of a 6.93 ERA in the majors this season, but he could get another shot in a low-leverage role in the bullpen down the stretch run once rosters are expanded in September.
Aug 26 2016McFarland (knee) was activated from the disabled list Friday.McFarland, who was placed on the DL on June 30, is back with the big club after finishing a five-game rehab assignment. Over 8.1 innings, McFarland allowed six runs off 11 hits. His performance with the Orioles hadn't been much better before getting injured, as he owns a 5.63 ERA and 1.63 WHIP. In a corresponding move, Logan Ondrusek was designated for assignment.
Aug 26 2016McFarland (knee) was considered for activation Thursday before the Orioles called up reliever Logan Ondrusek, MASN Sports reports. McFarland threw a scoreless inning at Double-A on Thursday and the plan is for him to throw again Friday.At this point, it looks like the Orioles may wait until rosters expand to activate McFarland. He has made five rehab appearances at Double-A with very mixed results, including three scoreless innings while allowing just a walk, and four hits -- including two home runs -- allowed while retiring one batter. He needs to be effective at Double-A before the Orioles decide to bring him back.
Aug 10 2016McFarland (knee) will pitch Monday at High-A Frederick for three innings during his rehab assignment, Eduardo A. Encina of the Baltimore Sun reports.McFarland has been dealing with this injury for a while, originally getting a cortisone shot in mid-May and recently landing on the DL on June 30. Prior to his outing Monday, McFarland tossed three scoreless innings with the GCL Orioles on Wednesday, only allowing one walk while adding a strikeout. He is still on schedule for his expected return around the end of the month.
Aug 9 2016McFarland (knee) should begin his rehab at the Gulf Coast League level Wednesday, MASN Sports reports.McFarland was scheduled to begin his assignment Tuesday, but the Gulf Coast League game was rained out. He should need just one start at that level before moving up to an unspecified minor league level. McFarland should need multiple weeks in the minors and he seems a logical choice for a promotion as soon as rosters expand, though there is still a chance he can make it back by the end of the month.
Aug 8 2016McFarland (knee) will leave be sent on his rehab assignment by the end of the week, Eduardo A. Encina of The Baltimore Sun reports.The Orioles plan to have McFarland pitch 2-3 innings with their Gulf Coast League affiliate, then send him on a rehab assignment shortly after. The club has yet to indicate when they think he'll be ready to be activated from the DL, but a return at the end of August or beginning of September seems likely.
Aug 3 2016McFarland (knee) is ready to throw a bullpen session, Roch Kubatko of MASNsports.com reports.At this point in time, the team has yet to say when exactly McFarland will throw his first bullpen session. However, it's likely that he'll do so in the coming days. The club expects McFarland to be activated from the DL sometime in September, at which point he'll rejoin an Orioles bullpen that has a combined ERA of just 3.07, the third-lowest in the league.
Jul 8 2016McFarland (knee) is expected to get a second opinion on his knee from Dr. James Andrews on Monday, Jon Meoli of the Baltimore Sun reports.McFarland has been dealing with knee issues all season but landed on the DL on June 30 as the injury became too cumbersome to ignore. He'll now get a second opinion from orthopedic surgeon, Dr. James Andrews which will likely reveal the exact cause of McFarland's knee troubles.
Jun 30 2016McFarland (knee) was placed on the 15-day DL on Thursday, Brittany Ghiroli of MLB.com reports.The knee issue has been lingering for quite a while -- he was treated with a cortisone shot back in mid-May and spent time on the minor league DL. McFarland has been riding the shuttle between Norfolk and Baltimore throughout the first half of 2016, posting a 5.63 ERA, 1.63 WHIP and 7:9 K:BB in 15 appearances with the big club.
Jun 28 2016McFarland was recalled by the Orioles on Tuesday, MASN's Roch Kubatko reports.Lefty Ashur Tolliver was sent down to Triple-A on Sunday, but the Orioles waited until after their day off to make a corresponding move by recalling McFarland. The left-handed McFarland will likely serve in a long relief role during his stint with the Orioles, especially in the absence of Vance Worley (groin). That said, McFarland has made four starts at Triple-A Norfolk this season and could make a spot start if the Orioles suffer an injury in the rotation.
Jun 26 2016McFarland, who was optioned to Triple-A Norfold following Saturday's doubleheader, could rejoin the Orioles on Tuesday, Rich Dubroff of CSN Mid Atlantic reports.While McFarland wasn't particularly sharp in his outing during the doubleheader (three hits and one walk in two innings), he did pick up a victory and apparently did enough to potentially rejoin the bullpen. If that's the case, he would take the spot of southpaw Ashur Tolliver, who was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo on Sunday.
Jun 25 2016McFarland has been recalled to serve as the 26th man for Saturday's doubleheader against the Rays.McFarland was optioned back to Triple-A last weekend, but he'll make what will likely be a brief return to add bullpen depth for Saturday's two-game set. In 21 innings for the O's this season, the left-hander has amassed a 5.14 ERA while striking out six and walking seven.
Jun 18 2016McFarland was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk of Saturday.The Orioles needed to clear space on the active roster with established veterans Yovani Gallardo (shoulder) and J.J. Hardy (foot) coming off the D.L on Saturday, and so McFarland was the casualty. The 27-year-old lefty worked a 5.87 ERA with a 2.09 WHIP during his recent call-up with the Orioles in which he made five appearances. He'll head back to Norfolk for now, but he figures to be a candidate to be recalled later in the season if the Orioles need an extra lefty out of the bullpen.
Jun 11 2016McFarland (1-2) gave up five hits, five earned runs and two walks over two innings in Saturday's 11-6 loss to the Blue Jays.McFarland entered in the sixth charged with protecting a 4-3 lead and with Kevin Pillar on first, but proceeded to surrender a hit, two walks, two sacrifice flies, and a three-run homer to Edwin Encarnacion over the first six batters he faced. The Blue Jays held an 8-4 lead by the time they'd finished knocking him around, an advantage they wouldn't relinquish. It was the 27-year-old's first poor performance since being recalled from Triple-A on June 1, a he'd fired three innings of scoreless ball over his first two appearances.
Jun 1 2016McFarland was recalled by the Orioles on Wednesday, Rich Dubroff of CSN Mid Atlantic reports.The Orioles swapped out their left-handed relievers Wednesday by recalling McFarland and optioning Ashur Tolliver down to Triple-A Norfolk. Tolliver was effective in three of his four relief outings during his stint with the Orioles, but McFarland boasts far more major league experience than does Tolliver. McFarland appeared in 30 games last season, notching a 4.73 ERA with 26 strikeouts against 18 walks.
May 31 2016McFarland (knee) tossed two scoreless innings Monday, allowing a hit with two strikeouts for Triple-A Norfolk.It was McFarland's first appearance since May 20 when he injured his knee while covering the plate. McFarland was originally slated to start Saturday, but he was scratched in case the Orioles needed bullpen help. The Orioles like McFarland in a swing role, but with Brian Matusz traded he might become a left-handed specialist. As of now Ashur Tolliver is serving in that role for Baltimore, but he is very green having just been promoted from Double-A.
May 24 2016McFarland (knee) was placed on the minor league DL Tuesday, MASN Sports reports.McFarland was injured while covering the plate last Friday. He would have been in the conversation to replace the recently traded Brian Matusz if not for the injury. He had a 1.93 ERA and 1.14 WHIP, but just two strikeouts in 14 innings spanning three starts at Triple-A. It seems likely McFarland will make the Orioles as a reliever when he returns to health. There is no structural damage to his knee, but McFarland figures to be out through early-June.
May 7 2016McFarland has been recalled from Triple-A Norfolk to serve as the 26th man for Game 2 of Saturday's doubleheader against the A's.The 26-year-old was optioned prior to Game 1 of the doubleheader, but he'll return to add depth to the bullpen for the nightcap.
May 7 2016McFarland will head back to Triple-A Norfolk and start Tuesday, Jon Meoli of the Baltimore Sun reports.McFarland was called up for added depth during Saturday's doubleheader, although he never actually took the field. The 26-year-old has 113 MLB appearances over the past four years, but he remains on the fringe of Baltimore's bullpen rotation this season. Despite getting the starting nod for Norfolk on Tuesday, McFarland will still likely be slotted in a bullpen-only role if he rejoins Baltimore later this summer.
May 7 2016McFarland was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk on Saturday.The 26-year-old southpaw has a 4.73 ERA and just four strikeouts in 13.1 innings this year, so he was deemed expendable when the Orioles wanted to bring up Paul Janish to start at shortstop in Game 1 of Saturday's doubleheader. McFarland should continue to provide organizational left-handed relief depth.
Apr 1 2016With Brian Matusz likely headed for the disabled list, McFarland should be guaranteed an Opening Day roster spot.Baltimore is short on left-handers and McFarland could be the specialist for the first week of the season. It remains to be seen whether the Orioles would option McFarland when Matusz returns, or move him back to a long relief role. McFarland had a rough spring, allowing seven earned runs and 22 players to reach with a hit or walk in 11.2 innings this spring.
Mar 14 2016McFarland (elbow) will return to game action Tuesday or Wednesday, Roch Kubatko of MASN Sports reports.McFarland has not appeared in a spring game since Mar. 6 due to his sore elbow, but he felt good during and after throwing a bullpen session Sunday, so he will resume pitching for the Orioles by mid-week.
Mar 13 2016McFarland (elbow) threw a bullpen session Sunday, and if he feels fine Monday, he could get in a game within a couple of days, MASN Sports reports.McFarland has had no setbacks since experiencing the discomfort in a Grapefruit League game a week ago. He has a solid chance at filling the final bullpen spot if he has a clean bill of health.
Mar 12 2016McFarland (elbow) played catch up to 120 feet Friday and says he feels great, Roch Kubatko of MASN reports.It's an optimistic outlook for McFarland, whose X-ray came back clean but who still has no timetable to return. It was hoped McFarland could start a throwing program this week, so it appears he's on the track the Orioles were hoping for.
Mar 8 2016An X-ray on McFarland's injured elbow came back clean, Eduardo Encina of the Baltimore Sun reports.Despite the good news, McFarland said he isn't sure when he might be able to throw again. There hasn't been any suggestion that he'll need an MRI, but it's still possible he could have one in the coming days. The 26-year-old lefty reliever is not assured of making Baltimore's Opening Day roster.
Mar 7 2016McFarland experienced elbow discomfort during Sunday's Grapefruit League game and will have an X-ray taken Monday, MASN Sports reports.McFarland allowed two runs on five hits and two walks in 1.1 innings Sunday. He said he believes the discomfort was a muscle issue rather than a joint issue. These would be two very different sensations and there is no doubt a muscle issue gives McFarland a much better prognosis than a joint issue. Brian Matusz (back) has also been hurt and it was thought McFarland could jump into the bullpen mix. A Triple-A assignment is also in the mix.
Oct 3 2015McFarland (2-2) picked up the victory in the 4-3 win over the Yankees on Saturday, throwing two scoreless innings in which he did not surrender any hits or walks. He also struck out a batter.McFarland pitched impressively after throwing 59 pitches over four innings Thursday against the Blue Jays. The 26-year-old performed relatively well for the Orioles during two separate stints in 2015, with a pair of particularly poor outings in which he gave up a combined 11 earned runs over 2.1 innings serving as the primary culprits for the slightly elevated 4.58 ERA he wraps up the season with.
Aug 4 2015McFarland was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk on Tuesday.Tyler Wilson pitched well Monday night, but with Chris Tillman (ankle) expected to make his next scheduled start, the team sent Wilson packing and added a seventh reliever in McFarland. The 26-year-old McFarland has allowed four runs on 19 hits and eight walks while striking out 13 in 13.1 innings with the big club so far this season.
Jun 28 2015McFarland was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk after Sunday's game against the Indians, Roch Kubatko of MASN Sports reports.McFarland was called up as the 26th man for the second game of a doubleheader, and he ended up tossing two scoreless mop-up innings in an 8-0 win. He has a 2.70 ERA in 13.1 innings this season, but he's given up four unearned runs and has a 2.03 WHIP. Although he's only been used as a starter in the majors this season, McFarland can provide depth for both the bullpen and rotation. He's made seven starts for Triple-A Norfolk, albeit with each of those lasting fewer than six innings.
Jun 28 2015McFarland has been called up from Triple-A Norfolk to serve as the Orioles' 26th man for the second game of Sunday's doubleheader with the Indians, Eduardo Encina of the Baltimore Sun reports.The versatile McFarland will give the Orioles a reliever capable of covering multiple innings in the event the bullpen gets overworked in Game 1. McFarland, who has a 3.18 ERA but a 2.02 WHIP over 11.1 innings with the Orioles this season, is expected to be reassigned to Norfolk after Game 2 concludes.
Jun 26 2015McFarland was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk on Friday, Rich Dubroff of CSN Mid-Atlantic reports.McFarland was recalled Wednesday, and allowed two runs over two innings in an outing Thursday that has now resulted in a demotion back to Triple-A. The move allowed the Orioles to recall Wei-Yin Chen, who will start Friday's contest.
Jun 24 2015McFarland was recalled by the Orioles on Wednesday, Brittany Ghiroli of MLB.com reports.McFarland was sent down to Triple-A earlier in the month despite posting a 1.93 ERA over 10 outings. He figures to slot back in as a lefty option in middle relief for Baltimore. The Orioles optioned Oliver Drake to Triple-A Norfolk to clear roster space for McFarland.
Jun 14 2015McFarland was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk prior to Sunday's game, Roch Kubatko of MASN Sports reports.McFarland has managed to maintain a 1.93 ERA over 9.1 innings out of the bullpen with the big club, despite posting an ugly 2.14 WHIP and 11:8 K:BB ratio. The poor peripheral numbers will result in him heading back to the minors, with Tyler Wilson arriving from Norfolk in a corresponding move to fill out the Orioles' bullpen.
Jun 14 2015McFarland seems a likely candidate to head back to Triple-A before Sunday's game, MASN Sports reports.McFarland has been up with the Orioles while Brian Matusz served a suspension, and it makes sense since both are left-handers. He has allowed a base-runner in all 10 of his Orioles appearances this season, but his ERA is 1.93 despite a 2.14 WHIP. Eight walks in 9.1 innings has been the problem, but McFarland has 11 strikeouts, which is much better than the last two seasons with the Orioles (6.2 K/9).
Jun 3 2015McFarland was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk on Wednesday.McFarland's recall from Triple-A won't move him into the Orioles' rotation, as he'll instead serve out of the club's bullpen. Oliver Drake was optioned to open up a spot on the 25-man roster.
May 25 2015McFarland could start for the Orioles on Thursday, Roch Kubatko of MASN Sports reports.McFarland was optioned to Triple-A on Sunday, but remains one of two options, along with Tyler Wilson, to start Thursday. Regardless, the start Thursday (if he gets it) would likely be all of his stay, as he would be returned to the minors following the contest.
May 24 2015McFarland was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk on Sunday, Rich Dubroff of CSN Baltimore reports.The demotion has more to do with the Orioles needing a fresh arm than it does McFarland's performance. The lefty was used in three of the last four games and was presumably unavailable Sunday, prompting the Orioles to purchase the contract of Chaz Roe from Triple-A Norfolk in a corresponding move.
May 9 2015McFarland pitched in long relief Friday, tossing three shutout innings with three strikeouts against the Yankees.McFarland made an immediate contribution on the day he was called up, keeping the Orioles within striking distance after Miguel Gonzalez allowed five runs in four innings. McFarland should remain in the long relief role for the time being. Prior to being called up, he had a 4.24 ERA and 1.37 WHIP at Triple-A.
May 8 2015McFarland was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk on Friday.McFarland was expected to join the bullpen assuming his flight made it on time to join the club Friday, and that must be the case. He'll take the place of Rey Navarro, who was optioned to Triple-A Friday, on the 25-man roster.
May 8 2015McFarland is on his way to join the Orioles in New York, Roch Kubatko of MASN Sports reports.If McFarland's flight arrives in time, he will be added to provide some bullpen depth ahead of Friday's game against the Yankees. Otherwise, Rey Navarro will remain on the roster for now. McFarland has posted a 4.24 ERA, 1.37 WHIP and 13:9 K:BB in 23.1 innings with Triple-A Norfolk this season.
Apr 5 2015McFarland was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk on Sunday.Following a poor spring in major-league camp, McFarland will start his season in the rotation for Triple-A Norfolk. He's probably only eighth or ninth in the organizational pecking order among starters, so there's no guarantee he gets a shot in the major leagues this season. His best chance may be a small role out of the bullpen.
Mar 29 2015McFarland got the win in Sunday's spring training game despite allowing an unearned run on five hits in two innings against the Blue Jays.McFarland is destined for the Triple-A rotation once again. He has not been effective this spring, allowing eight earned runs on 19 hits with four walks in 11 innings. The Orioles have other starters that should be higher than McFarland on the depth chart, so a shot at the rotation this season seems very slim.
Sep 1 2014McFarland was recalled from short-season Aberdeen after Monday's loss to the Twins, MLB.com's Brittany Ghiroli reports.McFarland was optioned to Aberdeen on Sunday strictly as a procedural move to free up a spot on the active roster. He'll rejoin the bullpen in September and will work in long relief, with his sights set on clinching a spot on the Orioles' postseason roster.
Aug 31 2014McFarland was optioned to short-season Aberdeen on Sunday, MLB.com reports.The procedural move allows the Orioles to activate the newly-acquired Alejandro De Aza, who will be available off the bench Sunday. McFarland will return to the Orioles on Tuesday, when Aberdeen's season will have been completed.
Jul 30 2014McFarland will be activated from the bereavement list Thursday, Roch Kubatko of MASN Sports reports.McFarland has been out since Sunday, but as expected, he'll be back with the Orioles for Thursday's series finale against the Angels. The team has yet to announce a corresponding roster move.
Jul 27 2014McFarland was placed on the bereavement list Sunday following the death of his grandmother, Orioles.com reports.McFarland will fly to Chicago on Monday, where he will remain on bereavement for the next three days. McFarland is slated to return Thursday - the bereavement list stipulates a player must miss at least three days - so the Orioles will need to call up a pitcher to fill his spot in the rotation Tuesday.
Jul 1 2014McFarland tossed five innings of seven-hit, two-run ball while not issuing a single walk and striking out two in a win over the Rangers.This was his first win of the season as well as his first start, as the reliever slotted into the rotation to cover for an ailing Bud Norris (groin) who recently landed on the DL. McFarland isn't officially scheduled for another start as of yet, as the O's have other options in Kevin Gausman and Randy Wolf to consider while Norris remains out. However, if McFarland were to get the nod for the next vacant spot in the rotation, it would likely come against the Red Sox on Sunday or Nationals on Monday.
Jun 30 2014McFarland will start Tuesday's game against the Rangers, MASN's Roch Kubatko reports.With Bud Norris (groin) being placed on the disabled list Friday, the O's will have McFarland fill in against the Rangers on Tuesday at Camden Yards. Looking beyond Tuesday, the Orioles might consider either Kevin Gausman or Randy Wolf for the rotation, rather than sticking with McFarland.
Jun 27 2014McFarland is the top option to start in place of the injured Bud Norris (groin) on Tuesday, Eduardo Encina of the Baltimore Sun reports.Kevin Gausman and Randy Wolf may be better options for the Orioles, but Gausman would be starting on short rest after pitching Friday, and Wolf has not built up his pitch count yet, so it appears McFarland could be the man for the job, so long as he is not needed out of the bullpen beforehand. Expect the Orioles to make an official announcement on Tuesday's starter in the next couple days.
May 23 2014McFarland was called up by the Orioles on Friday, CSN Baltimore's Rich Dubroff reports.Preston Guilmet was optioned down to Triple-A Norfolk in a corresponding move. McFarland had been starting in the minors, but it seems likely that he'll be primarily used out of the bullpen for as long as he's with the big-league club, as Chris Tillman (groin) is expected to make his next start. McFarland has a 3.75 ERA with 25 strikeouts in 24 innings with Triple-A Norfolk.
May 11 2014McFarland has been optioned to Triple-A Norfolk, MLB.com's Brittany Ghiroli reports.With McFarland headed to the minors, the report adds that the Orioles plan to add a righty to their pitching mix before their series against Detroit opens on Monday.
May 6 2014McFarland was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk on Tuesday, Roch Kubatko of MASN reports.The Orioles are in need of a long man in the bullpen, and McFarland will serve that function for the entirety of his stay in the majors. In four starts at the affiliate this season, he posted a 3.44 ERA, 1.309 WHIP, and 19:7 K:BB in 18.1 innings.
May 5 2014McFarland was scratched from Monday's start for Triple-A Norfolk, indicating that a call-up may be on the horizon, Roch Kubatko of MASNsports.com reports.If McFarland's called up, it will likely be to join the bullpen, though he owns a 3.44 ERA and 9.3 K/9 in four starts (18.1 innings) for Triple-A Norfolk this season.
Apr 27 2014McFarland could rejoin the Orioles Tuesday before Troy Patton (suspension) is acvtivated Wednesday, MASN Sports reports.McFarland would be a stopgap for one game and it would allow the Orioles to keep the bullpen fresh. After Patton's return McFarland would continue in the rotation at Triple-A. He may not see much action after that, as Brian Matusz, Zach Britton and Patton are ahead of him on the depth chart.
Apr 25 2014McFarland has been optioned back to Triple-A Norfolk, reports MLB.com's Brittany Ghiroli.Following three innings of relief for the Orioles on Friday night, allowing a run on five hits, McFarland was sent back to Triple-A Norfolk. A corresponding move is likely to be announced before Saturday evening's contest versus the Royals.
Apr 21 2014McFarland will be called up from Triple-A Norfolk prior to Tuesday's contest in Toronto, Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reports.Because the Orioles have been forced to use Zach Britton and Brian Matusz on back-to-back days, the bullpen requires a respite of sorts. In three nods at Norfolk this season, McFarland has gone 0-1 with an impressive 1.84 ERA, 1.127 WHIP, and 18:4 K:BB in 14.2 innings.
Apr 21 2014McFarland was called up from Triple-A Norfolk on Monday, Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reports.Because the Orioles have been forced to use Zach Britton and Brian Matusz on back-to-back days, the bullpen requires a respite of sorts. In three nods at Norfolk this season, McFarland has gone 0-1 with an impressive 1.84 ERA, 1.127 WHIP, and 18:4 K:BB in 14.2 innings.
Mar 29 2014McFarland did not make the Orioles' Opening Day roster.Not exactly a surprise, as McFarland entered camp as a long shot to make the roster. He's been stretched out as a starter and has experience as a reliever, and that versatility may come in handy for the Orioles at some point before the end of the season.
Mar 2 2014McFarland (knee) allowed three runs in one inning during his first spring training game action on Sunday.The good news is that McFarland struck out the side. The bad news is what happened in between those strikeouts. His knee appears to be fine, but he is an underdog for the fifth starter job and should be headed to begin the season at Triple-A.
Jan 15 2014McFarland said Wednesday that his right knee is fine, Roch Kubatko of MASNsports.com reports. "No more doctors," McFarland said.Word of McFarland's knee injury surfaced Tuesday, but he was quick to downplay the issue. The 24-year-old southpaw even threw a bit after team doctors looked him over Tuesday, so it sounds like he will be a go when spring training opens next month. Following his conversion back into a starter this winter, McFarland has an outside chance to crack the rotation.
Jan 14 2014McFarland tweaked his right knee three-to-four weeks ago, Roch Kubatko of MASNsports.com reports.McFarland was examined by team doctors Tuesday, and while he reportedly appeared OK, he did have the knee wrapped. The start of spring training is still a month away, so it seems likely McFarland will be ready, following his conversion back to a starting role during the Venezuelan winter league.
Nov 13 2013McFarland is being used as a starter in the Venezuelan winter league, MASN Sports reports.McFarland served as a mop up reliever during the 2013 season after the Orioles plucked him in the Rule 5 Draft. The Orioles seem ready to give McFarland a shot as a starter, though he will be a long shot to make the Orioles in spring training. In four starts, McFarland has allowed four earned runs in 21 innings with ten strikeouts.
Oct 5 2013McFarland will remain an Oriole after finishing the season on the roster and could be a rotation candidate in 2014, MASN Sports reports.The Orioles snatched McFarland in the Rule 5 Draft last offseason and he served on mop up duty all season for the Orioles. McFarland had some bright spots and he did get a spot start, but ultimately he was not ready for MLB hitters. The Orioles will have options with McFarland next year and it seems likely he would start the season in the minors and join the big league rotation if he is successful.
Sep 26 2013McFarland (personal) is not likely to be available Thursday against the Blue Jays, the Baltimore Sun reports.McFarland left the team earlier in the day to attend to an undisclosed family situation and manager Buck Showalter didn't anticipate him returning in time for Thursday's game. The Orioles have plenty of arms available in their bullpen and should be able to get by without him for one day.
Aug 26 2013McFarland allowed two runs in 2.1 innings with two strikeouts in Sunday's win over the Athletics.The Rule 5 Draft selection has pretty much made it to the finish line for the Orioles as rosters are set to expand. Had Baltimore attempted to option him, the Indians could have reclaimed his rights. The Orioles continue to use McFarland sparingly, as he has allowed 11 runs in 13.1 innings over his last six games.
Jun 29 2013McFarland was yanked in the third inning after allowing three runs on seven hits with four strikeouts Friday against the Yankees.McFarland's first career start was not a memorable one. He should return to his long relief role, while Kevin Gausman, who relieved McFarland, gets a second chance in the rotation.
Jun 27 2013McFarland was officially named Friday's starter for the Orioles against the Yankees, MASN Sports reports.McFarland will take the starting spot that was vacated by the release of Freddy Garcia, while Kevin Gausman will work out of the bullpen. The outing could be somewhat limited for McFarland, as his longest appearance out of the bullpen was in his last outing, 4.1 innings, and the most pitches he's thrown is 69 on June 1. It remains to be seen how long he will hold this rotation spot, especially with Gausman back on the roster.
Jun 24 2013McFarland is a candidate to start Friday's game against the Yankees, MASN Sports reports.The rotation spot is open after Freddy Garcia was released Monday. McFarland pitched in long relief of Garcia Sunday and is unavailable for relief work right now. Kevin Gausman is the leading candidate to make the start unless the Orioles need a long reliever before McFarland is ready to pitch again. Gausman has already taken Garcia's roster spot, but he is available out of the bullpen in McFarland's absence.
Jun 23 2013McFarland pitched in long relief against the Blue Jays on Sunday and allowed five runs in 4.1 innings.McFarland gave up the first two runs as soon as he entered the game in the third inning, then pitched into the seventh inning and allowed two more runs. He does not seem threatened to lose his job since the game is usually all but over when he tends to enter and because the Orioles would risk losing the Rule 5 Draft Pick back to the Indians.
Jun 1 2013McFarland provided three innings of relief Saturday after starter Jason Hammel was ejected and allowed five runs on five hits, including two home runs.McFarland continues to see spotty mop-up action. He had allowed just one home run in 24.2 innings this season but he was simply overmatched Saturday as the deep balls came from Miguel Cabrera and Prince Fielder.
May 2 2013McFarland tossed 1.1 perfect innings of relief with three strikeouts against the Mariners Wednesday.The Orioles continue to use McFarland sparingly, as that was just his sixth appearance despite spending the entire season so far on the MLB roster. The results have been positive, as McFarland has allowed three runs in 12.2 innings with 17 strikeouts. It looks like it could be another successful year for the Orioles in the Rule 5 Draft.
Apr 14 2013McFarland shut out the Yankees in two innings of relief Sunday, allowing a hit and a walk with three strikeouts.McFarland is the mop-up reliever, but starting pitching has been good enough so far that Sunday's appearance was just his second on the season. So far, so good for McFarland, who has thrown 5.1 shutout innings with eight strikeouts.
Mar 29 2013McFarland has made the Orioles' Opening Day roster, MLB.com's Brittany Ghiroli reports.The Rule 5 pick received the news he made the team after throwing a perfect four innings in a minor league game Friday. He'll work as long reliever for the Orioles and could be considered for a spot start if injuries necessitate it.
Mar 26 2013If McFarland makes the Orioles it will be in a long relief role, MASN Sports reports.We had already assumed McFarland would not make the rotation and this confirms it. He has allowed eight runs in 15.1 innings this spring.
Mar 20 2013McFarland delivered three scoreless innings of relief in Wednesday's spring training game against the Blue Jays.McFarland has now retired 18 of his last 19 batters and is getting hot at the right time. The Orioles have been impressed and there is a good chance the team finds a way to keep the Rule 5 Draft Pick. It seems a long relief role is what management has in mind, given the length of his last two outings.
Mar 16 2013McFarland retired all nine batters he faced in Friday's exhibition game, MASN Sports reports.A Rule 5 pick, McFarland has a shot to make the team. It seems likely he would pitch out of the bullpen, though the Orioles are still stretching him out. Baltimore kept Ryan Flaherty on the roster during all of 2012, so the team may go out of its way to keep McFarland, too.