But Sunday’s pitching performance by starter Stephen Kolek may have removed any obstacle placed by the struggles from the back end of the rotation. One start does not clear a hurdle, but it is worth keeping an eye on Kolek.

To make room for Kolek, right-hander David Morgan was optioned to Triple-A El Paso. Morgan was called up last Sunday but had yet to appear in a game, so he’ll have to wait for his big-league debut. An undrafted free agent in 2022, Morgan had struck out 19 in 8⅔ innings (3.12 ERA) at Double-A San Antonio.