CINCINNATI (AP) -Right-hander Ricky Stone, out of baseball last year while starting a drywall business, was called up Friday by the Cincinnati Reds, who are still struggling to fix their bullpen.
The Reds designated right-hander Victor Santos for assignment on Friday, a day after he gave up a walk, two hits and the deciding run in an 8-7 loss in Philadelphia.
The 32-year-old Stone pitched for the Reds in 2005, going 0-0 with a 6.75 ERA in 27 relief appearances. He retired after the season, devoting his time to starting a drywall business.
After sitting out the 2006 season, Stone – who is from nearby Hamilton, Ohio – wanted to get back into baseball. The Reds offered a minor league deal, and he went 4-4 with a 1.70 ERA and nine saves in 11 opportunities for Triple-A Louisville.
The bullpen has been the Reds’ downfall this season. Reds relievers have combined for a 4.83 ERA and 17 losses, tied for the most in the NL. Most of their problems have come in the seventh and eighth innings, with one reliever after another failing in the setup role.
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