Varland (0-5) took the loss Wednesday against the Royals, allowing three earned runs on eight hits and one walk in six innings. He struck out three.
Optioned to Triple-A following Friday's start, Varland was recalled Wednesday to make his second start since June 16. The 26-year-old managed to notch his first quality start of the season, but he was fortunate to surrender just the three runs. The right-hander allowed baserunners in all six innings he pitched while yielding solo home runs to Bobby Witt and Paul DeJong. Varland will continue to vie for the Twins' fifth rotation spot with Joe Ryan (shoulder) and Chris Paddack (forearm) sidelined, but his 6.14 ERA and 1.64 WHIP across 36.2 innings this season do not inspire confidence.