Reds make last minute roster moves before Oakland series

Chris Heisey has not appeared in a major league game in nearly two months, but that will change tonight as Dusty Baker penciled the outfielder in at designated hitter. In an April 27th game against the Nationals, Heisey injured his hamstring and the Reds placed him on the DL two days later. In six games at AAA Louisville, Heisey collected four hits and one walk. In order to make space for Heisey on the active roster, the Reds sent outfielder Donald Lutz back to the AA Pensacola (Fay, Cincinnati.com). This move is no surprise as Lutz needs regular play to continue to develop as ballplayer.

Cincinnati will also be without Brandon Phillips for the upcoming two-game series with the Athletics. The Reds placed Phillips on the paternity list before tonight's game, but the team declined to comment further about the second baseman's situation. Mark Sheldon reports that Cincinnati has once again summoned Henry Rodriguez from Louisville to provide depth while Phillips is away.

What does this mean for the Reds? Not much -- Lutz was the logical choice to option to make room for Heisey, and Phillips' leave of absence is surprising, but a two-game trip to the paternity list is hardly crippling.