Akin struck out three and allowed one hit in three shutout innings in Saturday's 5-3 loss to the Rays.
Akin worked in a multi-inning role behind starter Jordan Lyles, who took the loss Saturday. This was an expected appearance out of the bullpen for Akin, who failed to win a starting job in spring training. The southpaw was solid in this appearance -- more outings like Saturday's could allow him to challenge Dean Kremer or Tyler Wells for their spots in the rotation as the season progresses.