Varland was optioned to Triple-A St. Paul by the Twins on Monday.

Varland (0-1) took the loss Tuesday in Milwaukee after he allowed three runs on six hits and two walks over four innings. He struck out four.

Varland is expected to open the season in the Minnesota rotation after president of baseball operations Derek Falvey said Monday that Anthony DeSclafani (forearm) will open the season on the injured list, Bobby Nightengale of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

The Twins plan to have Varland stretch out as a starting pitcher this spring, although moving him to the bullpen remains an option, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. He's been working on an improved two-seam fastball and slider in the offseason to help him win a spot in the rotation.

Varland was recalled from Triple-A St. Paul on Monday.

Varland is expected to be recalled from Triple-A St. Paul prior to Monday's game against the Guardians, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports.

Minnesota optioned Varland to Triple-A St. Paul on Tuesday.

Varland did not factor into the decision Sunday, allowing four runs on six hits and two walks over 4.2 innings in a 7-6 loss to the Blue Jays. He struck out six.

Varland (1-0) allowed three runs on four hits and a walk while striking out seven over 6.1 innings to earn the win Sunday over the Cubs.

Varland is scheduled to start Tuesday's game against the Padres at Target Field.