Reds Get Key Reinforcement Back Ahead of D-Backs Game
Reds welcome Santillan back from the IL
The Cincinnati Reds have activated right-handed reliever Tony Santillan from the 15-day injured list ahead of their three-game road series against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field.
Santillan returns after missing nearly two months with a left oblique strain suffered in late June. To make room, Cincinnati optioned right-hander Zach Maxwell to Triple-A Louisville following Thursday’s roster adjustments.
The Reds announced the move through their official X account, confirming Santillan’s activation and Maxwell’s option ahead of the series opener against Arizona.
The #Reds today activated RHP Tony Santillan from the 15-day injured list and optioned RHP Zach Maxwell to Triple-A Louisville (postgame 8/20). pic.twitter.com/M5r4x2NvJa
Santillan gives manager Terry Francona another experienced arm for a bullpen that has dealt with several injuries this season. The right-hander appeared in 34 games before his injury and recorded five saves.
He posted a 1-4 record with a 5.23 ERA, 28 strikeouts and a 1.39 WHIP before landing on the injured list. During his minor league rehab assignment, Santillan retired all nine batters he faced and struck out five.
The Reds enter the series at 61-67 and sit fifth in the NL Central. Arizona, meanwhile, is 67-61 and remains in the middle of a tightly contested National League playoff race.
Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
Santillan’s return could provide Cincinnati with another option in important bullpen situations as the club begins its three-game series in Arizona. The Reds are 4-6 over their last 10 games and 29-31 on the road this season.
The Reds are still managing other injury concerns, with Spencer Steer sidelined by a right wrist sprain and Graham Ashcraft progressing from his long-term elbow injury. Ashcraft is scheduled for one final bullpen session before beginning a minor league rehab assignment next week.
Santillan now has an opportunity to rebuild his role in Cincinnati’s bullpen while helping the Reds navigate the final stretch of the season.
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