The Cincinnati Reds optioned reliever Lyon Richardson to Triple-A Louisville on Monday afternoon, according to the team’s official transaction log.
The move was anticipated, as MLB rules required the Reds to reduce their pitching staff back to the standard limit after using an extra arm for Sunday’s matchup against the Atlanta Braves. With a new series beginning Monday night against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field, Richardson was the odd man out.
Richardson, 24, got off to a promising start this season, flashing potential in a middle-relief role. However, his recent struggles have been glaring. Over his last 12 1/3 innings, the right-hander has posted a rough 8.03 ERA, allowing 14 earned runs on 16 hits, while also issuing 12 walks. His command issues and inability to limit damage likely factored heavily into the decision.
The Reds, now 58-54, begin a crucial road series against the Cubs sitting four games out of the final NL Wild Card spot. With playoff hopes still alive, Cincinnati is under pressure to tighten up its bullpen and maximize every roster spot as the stretch run begins.
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