Reds activate Lorenzen, call up Rainey; send Iglesias, Brice to DL

Cincinnati Reds fans who have been waiting the last couple of days for news that the team is activating right-handed pitcher Michael Lorenzen still got a bit of a surprise when the team confirmed the move on Wednesday afternoon.

News that Lorenzen is being activated today has been awaited since Jim Riggleman confirmed as much to The Athletic’s C. Trent Rosecrans yesterday before the Reds’ win over the Pirates. What wasn’t known was whose place he’d be taking, and that’s where things get disappointing.

Raisel Iglesias last pitched on Saturday, when he allowed two runs on three hits in a one inning appearance against the Cubs. For the season, he owns a 2.08 ERA and 0.92 WHIP in 21.2 innings, further solidifying his presence as the Reds’ premier bullpen arm. He’s also the Reds’ premier trade chip should they decide to entertain offers for him this summer, which makes this injury news particularly troubling. It’s been identified as a left biceps injury, while Brice’s has been called a back injury.

Like Iglesias, Brice last pitched on Saturday, when he allowed a run on two hits in one inning. The 25-year-old has a 4.68 ERA in 25 innings this season, but has been roughed up in May to the tune of seven earned runs in just 8.1 innings out of the pen.

Lorenzen has made three rehab appearances in the minors since May 14, throwing four scoreless innings with a hit, a walk and three strikeouts. He has a career ERA of 4.57 in three seasons with the Reds.

Rainey may be remembered by fans for allowing seven earned runs on three hits and five walks in his two-inning cup of coffee with the Reds earlier this season. He has a 2.04 ERA in Louisville this season, with 11 walks and 31 strikeouts in 17.2 innings.

Rosecrans also reported on Wednesday that Anthony Desclafani is with the big league club today, and is scheduled to pitch in Louisville on Friday.