Reds Shuffle Worn Out Pitchers

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Bryan Price had a tough decision to make.

Blake Wood, who filled several diffterent roles for his over worked bullpen, has been woefully ineffective in his last seven appearances.

Wood allowed 14 runs in 3 2/3 innings, walking five.  He was getting hit at a .522 clip.

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“It was hard to watch,” Price said.  “He puts his heart and soul into it.  Blake needs reps at a different location, but he didn’t have any options and we didn’t have any options. He’s been our most durable pitcher. He took the ball every time we asked, often after going two innings the day before. The bulk of his work here has been positive, but his recent performance led to this.”

The Reds designated Wood for assignment.  He needs to be traded, released or clear waivers in the next 10 days.  After 10 days, he can accept assignment to the Reds’ minor league system of become a free agent.

The Reds also optioned Philip Ervin to Louisville so he can get regular at bats at he end of the minor league season in early September.

The Reds promoted RHP Luke Farrell, who pitched High School baseball at Cleveland St. Ignatius.

Farrell was drafted by Kansas City and made his Major League debut on July 1 of this season in the first game of a doubleheader against the Minnesota Twins.  He allowed five runs in 2 2/3 innings.

“Every player has nerves in their debut. It was exciting, but I’m glad to be done with it,” Farrell said.  “I’ve done a lot of packing and unpacking this year.”

Farrell was taken off waivers by the Dodgers and in turn claimed from the Dodgers by the Reds/

Farrell has pitched in Louisville, Omaha and Oklahoma City.  Combined the 26-year old has a 7-6 record in 19 starts and one relief effort.  He has a 4.85 ERA,  With 106 strikeouts and 41 walks in 107 2/3 innings.

The Reds selected the contract of  24-year old RHP Alejandro Chacin.

Chacin hit every rung on the Reds’ minor league ladder.  Last season the native of Venezuela, led the Southern League with 52 appearances and 30 saves.

This season at Louisville, Chacin appeared in 44 games with 0-3 record, one save and a 2.60 ERA.

“Every promotion he’s gotten he’s deserved based on how he performed at the previous level. It’s really the American way,” Price said. “He’s earned everything he’s gotten to this point. I admire him for it.”