Reds continue to shuffle bullpen

Published 10:00 pm Saturday, April 23, 2016

CINCINNATI (AP) — The Reds reshuffled their struggling bullpen on Friday before the second game of a series against the Cubs, designating right-hander Tim Melville for assignment and calling up right-hander J.C. Ramirez.

Melville gave up four runs and two homers in two innings of a 16-0 loss to Chicago on Thursday night. Cincinnati’s bullpen had a 6.75 ERA that was worst in the NL. Reds relievers had thrown the most innings in the NL (58 2/3) and allowed the most homers (15) and walks (36).

The 27-year-old Ramirez was 1-3 with a 6.42 ERA in 38 games with Philadelphia, Arizona and Seattle.

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Right-hander Keyvius Sampson, who was designated for assignment on Monday, was sent outright to Triple-A Louisville.