After Chase Burns managed to record only one out in his latest start, the Cincinnati Reds were forced to rely heavily on their bullpen. As a result, the team made roster adjustments today to bring in some fresh arms for their series in Boston. Right-hander Sam Benschoter and left-hander Sam Moll have been called up from Triple-A Louisville, while lefty Joe La Sorsa and righty Connor Phillips have been optioned to make room.
Benschoter, whose name is pronounced “Ben-scooter,” joins the 40-man roster thanks to an opening created when Jeimer Candelario was designated for assignment. Signed as an undrafted free agent out of Michigan State in 2021, the 27-year-old has bounced between starting and long-relief duties over the past two years. In 2025, he’s pitched exclusively for Louisville, tallying four starts and 17 relief appearances with a 4-2 record and a 4.06 ERA over 51 innings. He has struck out 44 batters while walking 13 and has been particularly effective against right-handed hitters.
Benschoter features a mix of pitches including a four-seam fastball, two-seamer, slider, curveball, and splitter—though he uses the latter two sparingly. His fastballs have averaged around 93 MPH this season.
Meanwhile, Sam Moll is also rejoining the big league club. Unlike Benschoter, Moll has major league experience but has struggled significantly in 2025. In three MLB appearances, he posted an 18.00 ERA, and he hasn’t fared much better in Triple-A with a 7.79 ERA in 20 outings. Despite the struggles, the Reds are giving him another shot as they attempt to stabilize the bullpen.
