The Cincinnati Reds made several roster changes after pitcher Nick Lodolo was scratched from his scheduled start against the Toronto Blue Jays due to illness. Lodolo reportedly had a fever and chills, prompting the team to use Scott Barlow as an opener and rely on a bullpen game instead.
In response, the Reds called up left-handed reliever Reiver Sanmartin from Triple-A, sending Sam Moll down to make room. Since Sanmartin wasn’t on the 40-man roster, the Reds designated right-hander Joe La Sorsa for assignment to create space.
Sanmartin has had a strong season with the Louisville Bats, posting a 2.79 ERA over 58 innings. He’s been particularly dominant since the All-Star break, allowing just two runs in his last 21.1 innings (0.84 ERA) and holding hitters to a .184 batting average. Over his last four appearances, he’s thrown 9 innings with 10 strikeouts and no walks.
With Lodolo out, the Reds’ bullpen is expected to shoulder the load tonight. Fortunately, an upcoming off day on Thursday should help rest the pitching staff, though it could complicate Wednesday’s game if certain arms are unavailable.
