Jun 12, 2021; Oakland, California, USA; Kansas City Royals third baseman Kelvin Gutierrez (left) rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run against Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Jesus Luzardo (right) during the eighth inning at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports
The Oakland A’s were essentially forced into a no-win situation. Jesus Luzardo is supposed to be the future of the pitching staff, particularly in the rotation. However, he had struggled before being placed on the Injured List, and had been a disaster in the bullpen once he returned. The A’s could not use him, but they also did not want to destroy what confidence he had left.