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Cincinnati Reds

8/16/2006

Kent Mercker, cin

Mercker will need reconstructive surgery on his left elbow. Mercker has a torn ligament and tendon in the elbow. The Reds transferred Mercker to the 60-day disabled list Wednesday.

Scott Schoeneweis, cin

The Reds acquired Schoeneweis from Toronto on Wednesday for a player to be named or cash. The move came two days after the Reds learned that left-handed reliever Kent Mercker will need reconstructive surgery on his left elbow.

8/13/2006

Brian Shackelford, cin

The Cincinnati Reds recalled Shackelford from Louisville on Sunday.

8/12/2006

Kent Mercker, cin

Mercker was placed on the 15-day disabled list by the Cincinnati Reds on Saturday to left elbow inflammation. This is the 38-year-old left-handed reliever's third trip to the disabled list with the injury. The Reds recalled Chris Michalak from Triple-A Louisville to take his spot on the roster.

Chris Michalak, cin

Michalak was recalled by the Reds from Triple-A Louisville on Saturday after Kent Mercker was placed on the 15-day disabled list with left elbow inflammation. The 35-year-old Michalak has not pitched in the majors since 2002 with the Texas Rangers.

8/10/2006

Todd Hollandsworth, cin

Hollandsorth made his Reds debut in Thursday's 6-1 loss to the Cardinals, when he grounded to first to lead off the ninth inning as a pinch hitter. The left fielder was acquired by the Reds on Wednesday from the Cleveland Indians in exchange for a player to be named later or cash.

Chris Denorfia, cin

The Reds optioned Denorfia to Triple-A Louisville on Thursday to make room on the roster for left fielder Todd Hollandsworth.

8/9/2006

Todd Hollandsworth, cin

The Reds acquired Hollandsworth from the Cleveland Indians on Wednesday for a player to be named.

Brandon Claussen, cin

Claussen is scheduled to have surgery Monday to clean out his pitching shoulder. Claussen is expected to be ready for spring training.

8/7/2006

Ryan Franklin, cin

The Reds shuffled their bullpen again Monday by acquiring Franklin from the Philadelphia Phillies for cash and a player to be named.

Jason Standridge, cin

Standridge (back spasms) went on the disabled list Monday.

Gary Majewski, cin

Majewski (inflammation in his right shoulder) went on the disabled list Monday.

7/31/2006

Rheal Cormier, cin

The Reds acquired Cormier from Philadelphia on Monday in an attempt by the NL wild-card leader to bolster its pitching staff.

Kyle Lohse, cin

The Reds acquired Lohse from the Minnesota Twins on Monday in an attempt by the NL wild-card leader to bolster its pitching staff.

7/30/2006

Ryan Franklin, cin

Franklin was designated for assignment by the Philadelphia Phillies on Sunday, ending a disappointing stint where the right-hander never adjusted to his new role in the bullpen.

7/26/2006

Scott Hatteberg, cin

Hatteberg got a one-year contract extension on Wednesday that will pay him at least $1.65 million. The Reds' first baseman will earn a $1.5 base salary next season. His contract includes a club option for 2008 at $1.85 million, with a $150,000 buyout.

7/23/2006

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey singled in each of his last two at-bats Sunday. He's 6-for-36 (.167) since the All-Star break with one homer.

7/20/2006

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey was out of the Reds' lineup Thursday, getting a day off after the night game that ended after midnight.

7/14/2006

Matt Belisle, cin

The Reds put Belisle back on the 15-day disabled list Friday. Belisle was on the 15-day disabled list from May 30 to June 26 because of a sore back.

William Bergolla, cin

The Reds optioned Bergolla to Triple-A Louisville.

7/8/2006

David Ross, cin

Ross left Cincinnati's 10-5 win over Atlanta on Friday with a lower abdominal strain. He was injured after hitting an RBI double in the second inning. He pulled up leaving the batter's box and then jogged to second. It's not yet known how long he'll be out. Ross is batting .311 with 12 homers and 31 RBIs in 45 games for the Reds this season.

7/6/2006

Edwin Encarnacion, cin

Encarnacion was activated from the disabled list by Cincinnati on Wednesday. He had been on the DL with an ankle injury since June 9. The third baseman is batting .270 with six home runs and 36 RBIs in 53 games for Cincinnati this season, his second in the major leagues.

Brian Shackelford, cin

Shackelford was arrested in Milwaukee early Thursday on suspicion of third-degree sexual assault. The Reds optioned the 29-year-old left-handed reliever to Triple-A Louisville, but declined to say whether the move was related to the case. Shackelford was 1-0 with a 7.71 ERA in 17 games with Cincinnati during two stints with the Reds this season. Left-hander Mike Gosling was called up to take his roster spot.

7/3/2006

Bronson Arroyo, cin

Arroyo was selected to his first All-Star team Sunday as one of the eight starting pitchers on the National League roster. He is 9-4 with a 2.58 ERA this season.

7/1/2006

Adam Dunn, cin

Dunn hit a grand slam with two out in the bottom of the ninth inning off Cleveland Indians closer Bob Wickman on Friday to lead Cincinnati to a 9-8 victory.

6/30/2006

Chris Hammond, cin

Hammond was designated for assignment on Friday after going 1-1 with a 6.91 ERA in 29 appearances for Cincinnati this season. The veteran left-hander, who signed an $800,000, one-year deal with the Reds in December, gave up three runs in just one-third inning against Kansas City on Thursday.

Brian Shackelford, cin

Shackelford was called up from Triple-A Louisville on Friday after Chris Hammond was designated for assignment. Shackelford, a left-hander, was 1-0 with a 7.71 ERA in 14 relief appearances for the Reds during a stint from April 20-May 30.

6/28/2006

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey hit his 550th career homer in Tuesday's 9-8 loss to Kansas City, his second in as many games. It was Griffey's 152nd home run as a Reds player, tying Pete Rose and Joe Morgan for 12th place on the franchise list. The Reds' center fielder took sole possession of 11th place on the major league career list on Sunday with his 549th homer, and now trails Reggie Jackson by 14.

6/27/2006

Matt Belisle, cin

Belisle was activated off the 15-day disabled list on Tuesday. The Reds' right-handed reliever went on the DL May 30 with a strained lower back and made six minor league rehab appearances. He is 2-0 with a 3.86 ERA in 14 appearances for Cincinnati this season and will try to shore up the Reds' bullpen, which has a 5.07 ERA.

6/26/2006

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey hit his 549th career homer in Cincinnati's 4-2 win over Cleveland on Sunday to move into sole possession of 11th place on the career list. The Reds' center fielder, who has 13 home runs on the season, broke a tie with Mike Schmidt and now trails Reggie Jackson by 14.

Mike Burns, cin

Burns was optioned to Triple-A Louisville on Monday. The 27-year-old reliever has made 11 appearances during three stints with the Reds this season, posting an 8.78 ERA through 13 1-3 innings. He pitched two shutout innings in his last outing on Thursday, giving up two hits in a 6-2 loss to the New York Mets.

6/20/2006

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey hit his 548th career homer in the Reds' 4-2 victory over the Mets on Monday night, tying him with Mike Schmidt for 11th place on the all-time list. The homer also gave Griffey and his dad, Ken Sr., 700 career homers combined.

Bronson Arroyo, cin

Arroyo gave up two runs and seven hits, throwing his third career complete game as Cincinnati beat the New York Mets 4-2 on Monday night. It was the second complete game this season for the right-hander, whom the Reds acquired from Boston on March 20 for Wily Mo Pena. He struck out five and walked one.

6/18/2006

Mike Burns, cin

Burns was recalled by the Reds from Triple-A Louisville on Sunday after placing Brandon Claussen on the 15-day disabled list. The right-hander is expected to be used out of the bullpen.

6/17/2006

Brandon Claussen, cin

Claussen was put on the 15-day disabled list on Saturday with shoulder tendinitis a day after one of the worst outings of his career. The Cincinnati Reds left-hander is 0-4 in his last five starts and gave up eight hits and nine runs in just over two innings on Friday.

6/14/2006

David Weathers, cin

Weathers may be available for the Reds on Friday after throwing on Wednesday for the first time since leaving Sunday's 9-3 loss to the Chicago Cubs with right shoulder tendinitis.

6/9/2006

Ray Olmedo, cin

Olmedo was recalled by the Reds from Triple-A Louisville on Friday after Edwin Encarnacion was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a sprained left ankle.

Edwin Encarnacion, cin

Encarnacion was placed on the 15-day disabled list by the Reds due to a sprained left ankle. The Reds called up shortstop Ray Olmedo to take his spot on the roster.

5/21/2006

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey hit his 15th career grand slam in the Reds' 7-6 10-inning loss to the Tigers on Saturday night.

5/17/2006

Eric Milton, cin

Milton, who underwent arthroscopic knee surgery on April 24, is expected to return to the Cincinnati rotation Saturday to face the Detroit Tigers in the first round of interleague play. The Reds' left-hander is 2-1 with a 6.50 ERA in three starts this season.

Joe Mays, cin

The Kansas City Royals released Mays Tuesday after designating him for assignment on May 8. The Royals didn't get a payoff on Mays, who went 0-4 wtih a 10.27 ERA in six starts. They were hoping he would rebound closer to his 2001 form, being another removed from arm troubles that sidelined him for the entire 2004 season. In 2001, Mays enjoyed his best season with Minnesota, going 17-13 with a 3.16 ERA.

Kyle Lohse, cin

The Minnesota Twins sent Lohse to Triple-A Rochester Wednesday after getting roughed up for the third time in four starts Tuesday night. The 26-year-old right-hander, in his sixth big league season, has allowed 19 runs in his last four starts -- generating a 1-3 mark and 9.33 ERA. For the season, Lohse is 2-4 with an 8.92 ERA.

5/14/2006

Kent Mercker, cin

Mercker was placed on the 15-day disabled list by the Reds on Sunday, due to an inflamed left elbow. The Reds have recalled pitcher Mike Burns from Triple-A Louisville to replace Mercker on the roster.

5/12/2006

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey returned to the Reds' lineup in grand style Thursday, making a diving catch early in the game and securing Cincinnati's 5-4 win with a three-run homer in the 11th inning. The Reds had fallen behind 4-1 when Washington scored three runs in the top of the 11th, but an RBI single by Felipe Lopez and Griffey's home run off Washington's Joey Eischen sparked the remarkable comeback.

5/11/2006

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

The Reds' Web site is reporting that Griffey has been activated from the 15-day disabled list and will bat third in the lineup Thursday against the Washington Nationals. To make room for Griffey, Cincinnati optioned Chris Denorfia to Triple-A Louisville.

Eric Milton, cin

Milton faced hitters Wedesday for the first time since undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery on April 24. The Cincinnati left-hander threw 85 pitches facing teammates Chris Denorfia, Quinton McCracken and Ray Olmedo. He threw 80 pitches in an earlier bullpen session and handled fielding drills successfully on Tuesday, so Milton isn't far off from returning.

5/4/2006

Eddie Guardado, cin

Seattle manager Mike Hargrove said he will go with a closer-by-committee after Eddie Guardado blew his third save in his last six outings Wednesday night. The Mariners' left-hander is 0-2 with four saves and an 8.38 ERA this season.

Rich Aurilia, cin

The Cincinnati Reds placed Aurilia on the 15-day disabled list Thursday with a strained right groin. The veteran infielder was injured in Cincinnati's loss to Colorado Wednesday night. He is batting .295 with five home runs and 13 RBIs in 23 games for the Reds.

5/2/2006

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey will stay in Cincinnati when the Reds travel to Colorado for a two-game series that begins on Wednesday. While the Reds' center fielder is eligible to come off the disabled list, he isn't ready to return from an inflamed tendon behind his right knee. "There hasn't been a setback," manager Jerry Narron said. "He just hasn't gotten to the point where he feels like he can play."

Bronson Arroyo, cin

Arroyo improved to 5-0 Monday night, going the distance for a 6-1 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals in a matchup of surging National League Central rivals. The Cincinnati right-hander, acquired from Boston for Wily Mo Pena on March 20, allowed four hits and three walks to the Cards. He has given up just two runs in his last three starts, dropping his ERA to 2.06 in his first six outings of the season.

4/28/2006

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey is eligible to come off the disabled list Friday, but he won't be activated after taking batting practice and shagging flies in the outfield earlier in the day. The Reds' center fielder didn't feel an inflamed tendon behind his right knee was back to full strength.

4/27/2006

Bronson Arroyo, cin

Arroyo improved to 4-0 Wednesday, allowing just one hit and fanning eight in Cincinnati's 5-0 victory over the Washington Nationals. He has allowed just one run and fanned 16 over his last two starts. His ERA is 2.34 through his first five starts for the Reds.

Brandon Phillips, cin

Phillips went 0-for-5 Wednesday, marking the end of a nine-game hitting streak in which the Cincinnati second baseman batted .421 (16-for-38) with four doubles, three home runs and 18 RBIs. For the season, the 24-year-old infielder is batting .327 with three homers and 18 RBIs in 15 games.

4/24/2006

Eric Milton, cin

Cincinnati's Web site is reporting that Milton will undergo arthroscopic surgery, perhaps as soon as Monday, to clean out damaged cartilage in his sore left knee. The Reds' left-hander is expected to go on the 15-day disabled list soon, retroactive to April 19. Milton reported discomfort after he was roughed up by Florida last Tuesday, and an MRI exam was performed over the weekend.

Brandon Phillips, cin

Phillips continues to hit. He went 3-for-6 with a double, homer and four RBIs Sunday in Cincinnati's 11-0 romp over Milwaukee. The second baseman, acquired from Cleveland barely more than two weeks ago, has a seven-game hitting streak. During his run, he is 14-for-31 (.452) with four doubles, three homers and an incredible 17 RBIs.

Elizardo Ramirez, cin

The Cincinnati Reds have recalled Ramirez from their Triple-A Louisville affiliate to start Monday against the Washington Nationals, according to the Reds' Web site. The move was made to fill the hole created by Eric Milton's anticipated surgery Monday for a left knee injury. The rookie Ramirez was 0-3 with a 9.31 ERA in his four starts for the Reds in 2005.

4/23/2006

Brandon Claussen, cin

Claussen tied a major league record by giving up four home runs to the Brewers in the fourth inning on Saturday. Milwaukee hit five homers in the inning off Cincinnati pitchers, only the fourth time in major league history and the first time since 1966 that has happened. The left-hander gave up nine runs in only three innings and watched his ERA balloon from 3.18 to 6.75

4/21/2006

Brandon Phillips, cin

A change of scenery can make all the difference. Phillips, a former Indians prospect acquired by Cincinnati on April 7, hit a pair of home runs and drove in six in the Reds' 12-8 win over Milwaukee on Thursday. The Reds came back from a 6-2 deficit with 10 straight runs in the middle innings. Phillips capped a five-run sixth with a grand slam.

4/18/2006

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

The Cincinnati Reds put Griffey on the 15-day disabled list Monday night following their 9-1 victory over the Florida Marlins. The Reds' center fielder has been bothered by stiffness in his right knee, caused by an inflamed tendon. The injury, which is not considered serious, has forced him to miss the last five games.

4/17/2006

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Stiffness in his right knee will keep Griffey out of the Cincinnati lineup against Florida on Monday. The Reds' center fielder will miss his fifth straight game. He ran on a treadmill for 12 minutes earlier in the day and said the leg felt better, but it still tightens up on him.

4/14/2006

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey missed his second straight start due to stiffness in his right knee on Friday. The center fielder and manager Jerry Narron were hopeful he would play Saturday against the Cardinals.

4/13/2006

Brandon Watson, cin

Watson, along with catcher Wiki Gonzalez, was optioned to Triple-A New Orleans on Thursday. In a corresponding move, the team recalled outfielder Ryan Church and infielder Brendan Harris.

4/12/2006

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey left Wednesday's game against the Chicago Cubs in the fourth inning because of stiffness in the back of his right knee. The Cincinnati center fielder said the injury isn't serious, but he doesn't know if he will be able to play Thursday in the series finale at Wrigley Field.

4/5/2006

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey hit a solo homer Wednesday in Cincinnati's 8-6 victory over the Chicago Cubs. The homer was the 537th of Griffey's career, moving him past Mickey Mantle into 12th place among the all-time leaders. It also gave Griffey 1,538 career RBIs, breaking his tie with Joe DiMaggio for 31st on the career list.

Bronson Arroyo, cin

Arroyo claimed the "W" and hit a third-inning home run Wednesday in his Reds debut, an 8-6 Cincinnati win over the Chicago Cubs. The right-hander worked 6 2/3 innings, allowing six hits and three earned runs. He didn't walk a batter and fanned seven.

Ryan Freel, cin

Freel stole three bases and scored three runs in Cincinnati's 8-6 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday. He was 1-for-3 with two walks in the win, showing the skills that make him one of the more underrated leadoff men in the game.

3/28/2006

Brandon Watson, cin

The Washington Nationals optioned Ryan Church to Triple-A New Orleans Tuesday, meaning Watson will make the opening day roster. A pure hitter who ranks among the Nationals' better prospects, Watson split last season between Double-A Harrisburg and New Orleans. He batted .355 with 15 doubles and 69 runs scored in 88 games at the Triple-A affliate.

3/27/2006

Royce Clayton, cin

Washington's starting shortstop, Cristian Guzman, was placed on the 15-day disabled list Monday. He is out with a right shoulder injury and will miss the start of the season. Clayton will get the nod at short on opening day, and it could be a long-term gig. Guzman is hoping to avoid season-ending surgery with rest and rehab work, but it's possible he will not play at all in 2006.

Paul Wilson, cin

Wilson continues to prepare for the season following shoulder surgery in June. He threw 60 pitches against hitters in batting practice Sunday without problems. Next the Reds' right-hander will work a simulated game on Friday. Wilson will start the year on the disabled list and continue his rehab work in Florida.

Jason LaRue, cin

LaRue had surgery to repair torn cartilage in his right knee Monday and returned to camp later in the day to start his rehab work. The Reds' catcher is hoping to be in Cincinnati's opening day lineup against the Chicago Cubs next Monday.

3/26/2006

Jason LaRue, cin

LaRue will have surgery to repair torn cartilage in his right knee on Monday and is expected to miss a couple of weeks. Javier Valentin is expected to do the catching for the Reds while LaRue is out.

3/24/2006

Juan Castro, cin

Castro has been bothered by a wrist injury this spring, but the Twins' infielder played in a minor league game on Friday.

3/21/2006

Jason Standridge, cin

To make room on the 40-man roster for catcher David Ross, who was acquired from San Diego Tuesday, the Cincinnati Reds designated Standridge for assignment. The 27-year-old right-hander, who was 2-2 with a 4.59 ERA in 34 relief appearances for Texas and Cincinnati last year, had posted an 11.57 ERA in seven games this spring.

3/9/2006

Eric Milton, cin

Milton, who strained a calf muscle during his Tuesday start, will not make his second appearance of the spring Sunday. The Reds' lefty has been scratched from the start and will work a simulated game on the side instead.

Aaron Harang, cin

Harang was scratched from his spring training start Thursday because of right shoulder inflammation. Reds trainer Mark Mann told the Cincinnati Enquirer that the right-hander has been bothered by mild inflammation over the last week, but it's not considered serious. The Reds are not pursuing an X-ray or MRI exam.

3/8/2006

Eric Milton, cin

Milton's first spring start was delayed until Tuesday by a strained right calf. The Cincinnati left-hander endured a dismal debut, throwing 33 pitches and failing to get out of the first inning following a three-run homer to Toronto's Shea Hillenbrand and an RBI double to John-Ford Griffin. On top of that, he re-aggravated the injury during his brief appearance. He felt the calf grab while backing up home plate on Griffin's double.

2/15/2006

Kyle Lohse, cin

Lohse will make $3.95 million rather than $3.4 million after beating Minnesota Wednesday in salary arbitration. It was the second year in a row that the Twins' right-hander won in arbitration.

2/14/2006

Adam Dunn, cin

Avoiding arbitration, Dunn and the Cincinnati Reds reached an agreement for a two-year, $18.5 million deal Monday. The 26-year-old outfielder/first baseman will receive $7.5 million this season and $10.5 million in 2007. The club has an option for a $13 million salary in 2008 with a buyout option for $500,000.

2/8/2006

Mike Gosling, cin

The Arizona Diamondbacks designated Gosling for assignment Tuesday in order to make room for free-agent outfielder Jeff DaVanon. In his second season, the left-hander was 0-3 with a 4.45 ERA in 13 games (five starts). Arizona has 10 days to trade him, send him outright to the minor leagues or place him on waivers.

1/19/2006

Bronson Arroyo, cin

Arroyo and the Red Sox agreed to a three-year contract on Thursday worth about $12 million, avoiding salary arbitration. The right-hander was a career-high 14-10 with a 4.51 ERA in 32 starts for Boston last season. The 28-year-old pitched a career-best 205.1 innings in 2005.

1/17/2006

Aaron Harang, cin

Harang avoided salary arbitration by agreeing to a $2.35 million, one-year contract with the Reds on Tuesday. The right-hander went 11-13 with a 3.83 ERA in 32 starts last season. He also had one of Cincinnati's two complete games.

1/15/2006

Javier Valentin, cin

The Cincinnati Reds have re-signed Valentin for 2006. The 30-year-old catcher batted .281 with 11 doubles, 14 homers and 50 RBIs in just 76 games last season. Reportedly Valentin will make $1.15 million in 2006.

1/13/2006

Frank Menechino, cin

Menechino has signed a minor league contract with the Cincinnati Reds and will be invited to spring training. After batting .301 with the Blue Jays in 2004, the veteran infielder struggled last season, hitting just .216 with four home runs and 13 RBIs.

Grant Balfour, cin

Balfour has signed with the Cincinnati Reds, agreeing to a one-year, $340,000 contract. The 28-year-old righthander did not pitch in the major leagues last season after undergoing ligament replacement surgery on his elbow in May. He then required another procedure later in the year to repair some problems with the labrum and rotator cuff in his shoulder.

1/9/2006

Rich Aurilia, cin

Aurilia and the Cincinnati Reds came to terms on a $1.3 million, one-year contract Sunday night, about three hours before the team would have lost the right to re-sign him until May. The second baseman's deal includes a $2 million mutual option for 2007. If he has 400 plate appearances this year, a $100,000 buyout would kick in if the option is declined. The buyout increases to $200,000 if he has 450 plate appearances.

1/5/2006

Ryan Franklin, cin

Franklin agreed to a $2.6 million, one-year contract Thursday with the Philadelphia Phillies. The right-hander, who served a 10-day suspension after testing positive for steroids, went 8-15 with a 5.10 ERA in 190 2-3 innings with Seattle last season.

12/28/2005

Joe Mays, cin

Mays signed a one-year contract with the Kansas City Royals.

12/21/2005

Chris Hammond, cin

Hammond inked an $800,000, one-year deal with the Reds on Tuesday. The 39-year-old left-hander adds depth to Cincinnati's bullpen. Hammond was 5-1 with a 3.84 ERA in 55 appearances for the Padres last season. He held left-handed batters to a .164 average.

Jason LaRue, cin

LaRue agreed to a $9.1 million, two-year contract with the Reds on Tuesday, making him Cincinnati's starting catcher. LaRue started 104 games last season, hitting .260. He shared the catcher duties with Javier Valentin.

12/19/2005

Ryan Freel, cin

Freel and the Cincinnati Reds agreed to a $3 million, two-year deal Monday and avoided salary arbitration. The 29-year-old will get a base salary of $1.3 million next year and $1.7 million in 2007. His base salary would increase in the second year if he plays regularly.

12/2/2005

Jimmy Journell, cin

Journell agreed to a minor league contract with the Reds on Thursday. The 28-year-old righthander made 12 relief appearances for St. Louis in 2003 and 2005. He has a 0-1 career record with a 7.42 ERA.

Tommy Phelps, cin

Phelps agreed to a minor league contract with the Reds on Thursday and will be invited to spring training. The 31-year-old lefthander spent 2005 with the Brewers, going 0-2 with a 4.63 ERA and one save in 29 relief appearances.

11/17/2005

Mike Burns, cin

The Cincinnati Reds have claimed Burns off waivers from the Houston Astros. The 27-year-old right-hander made 27 relief appearances for the Astros in 2005, posting a 4.94 ERA and a .238 opponent batting average. He was touched for six home runs in just 31 innings.

11/16/2005

David Weathers, cin

On Tuesday, Weathers had surgery to repair a small tear in his right knee. The Reds' right-hander is expected to recover in four weeks. He was 7-4 with 15 saves and a 3.94 ERA in 73 relief appearances last season.

11/2/2005

Eddie Guardado, cin

The Seattle Mariners exercised their $6.25 million option on Guardado for 2006. The Mariners' closer was 2-3 with a 2.72 ERA and 36 saves last season.

10/29/2005

Rich Aurilia, cin

In what is being called a mutual decision by the club and player, the Cincinnati Reds have declined to pick up the option on the infielder's contract. Aurilia hit .282 with 14 home runs and 68 RBI for the Reds this past season. He will receive a $150,000 buyout and becomes a free agent.

9/30/2005

Grant Balfour, cin

It's been a horrible year for Balfour, who underwent Tommy John surgery on May 13. He began a light throwing program at the Twins' spring training complex this month, but came down with a shouder ailment that led to surgery Thursday to repair a torn rotator cuff and torn labrum. The 27-year-old righthander didn't pitch for Minnesota this year.

9/26/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey underwent a pair of arthroscopic procedures to clean out both his left knee and the scar tissue surrounding his right hamstring on Monday. The Reds' center fielder is expected to be fully recovered from his surgeries in four weeks.

9/22/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey will have surgery on his left knee and right hamstring Monday. The procedures mark the end of a stellar comeback season in which the Reds' center fielder batted .301 with 35 home runs and 92 RBI in 128 games.

9/21/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey remains doubtful to play again in 2005 after having his right foot examined on Tuesday. There is lingering soreness where the ligament attaches to the bone, and it's likely that the discomfort will keep the Reds' center fielder from returning to action later in September.

9/19/2005

Kyle Lohse, cin

Lohse has been effective in two starts since attacking the door to Twins manager Ron Gardenhire's office on September 6. He's allowed a single run to both Detroit and Chicago in two subsequent outings, but the finger he injured in the bat attack still bothers him and may force him to miss his next start this weekend.

Edwin Encarnacion, cin

Encarnacion was a late scratch before the start of Cincinnati's loss to Pittsburgh Sunday. The Reds' rookie third baseman reported to the park with a stiff right shoulder.

9/15/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey will spend Thursday's off day in Orlando, visiting the same physical therapist with whom he worked two years ago when he tore a tendon in his right foot. The Reds' star partially tore the same tendon in his right foot on September 4.

9/8/2005

Kyle Lohse, cin

Lohse injured the middle finger on his pitching hand in a Tuesday attack of the metal door to Minnesota manager Ron Gardenhire's office at the Metrodome. The Twins' righthander, upset that he was pulled after just two innings of work in a loss to Texas, reportedly took a bat to the door as well as another door leading into the Twins' locker room.

9/7/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

While the official word is that Griffey strained a tendon in his right foot on Sunday, the Dayton Daily News is reporting that an unnamed source says the Reds' center fielder has suffered a more serious injury. Reportedly the source says Griffey has pulled part of a tendon off the bone, which could lead to season-ending surgery.

9/6/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey probably won't play until Friday because of the tendon in his right foot that he strained on Sunday. He tested the foot on Tuesday and was able to run, but cutting and stopping were problematic. The Reds plan to rest him on Tuesday and Wednesday before Thursday's off day, giving the center fielder three more days to heal.

9/5/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey strained a tendon in his right foot rounding second in the 12th inning on Sunday and is day-to-day. It was a good day for the Reds' center fielder before suffering the injury, as he went 2-for-5 with a home run. His solo shot in the first inning was the 536th of his career and ties him with Mickey Mantle for 12th place all-time.

Rich Aurilia, cin

Aurilia has been battling a viral infection the past week and has not started since August 31 against Houston. He pinch-hit on Sunday, which may be a sign that he will be ready to go on Monday against the Brewers.

Ryan Freel, cin

The Cincinnati Reds activated Freel from the disabled list Monday, roughly two weeks after surgery to remove a piece of cartilage from his right knee. The utilityman had missed 18 games. He returns with a .282 average, .380 on-base percentage and 29 steals in 77 games for the Reds.

9/3/2005

Brandon Watson, cin

The Washington Nationals recalled Watson from Triple-A New Orleans on Friday. Watson is hitting .200 (4-20) in six games with the Nationals.

9/2/2005

Juan Castro, cin

The Minnesota Twins activated Castro from the disabled list on Friday. The middle infielder had been out since mid-August with right knee tendinitis.

8/30/2005

Todd Hollandsworth, cin

Hollandsworth was traded by the Cubs to Atlanta on Monday for two minor leaguers, pitchers Angelo Burrows and Todd Blackford. The outfielder will provide outfield depth and a lefthanded bat on the bench for the Braves during the last month of the season and into the playoffs.

8/27/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Ken Griffey Jr. has played in 41 of the Reds' last 43 victories. In those games, Griffey is batting .368 (60-for-163), with 20 homers, 49 RBI and 50 runs scored. His next home run will tie Jimmie Foxx (534) for 13th place on the all-time home-run list.

Joe Mays, cin

After making 24 consecutive starts for the Twins, Joe Mays has been demoted to the Twins bullpen. Over Mays' last 16 starts, the Twins have gone just 3-13, and for the season, Mays is 6-9 with a 5.16 ERA, a .313 opponent batting average, and just 3.4 strikeouts per nine innings.

8/25/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey extended his current hitting streak to 11 games, going 3-for-5 with a solo home run and two runs scored in Thursday's victory over the Washington Nationals. The Reds' veteran outfielder has been on fire over that span, notching seven multihit games. In 46 at-bats, he has 21 hits (.457), including five home runs and a double.

Brandon Claussen, cin

Claussen allowed just one unearned run on six hits over 5.2 innings to record the victory, as the Reds topped the Washington Nationals 5-3 on Thursday. The lefthander, who has now won his last five decisions, has a 2.77 ERA over his last six starts.

8/18/2005

Rich Aurilia, cin

Aurilia went 1-for-3 with a walk and run scored in Thursday's victory over the San Francisco Giants, and he's now hit safely in 11 of his last 12 games. Over that span, the Reds' veteran infielder is batting .326 with three home runs and eight RBI.

Ryan Freel, cin

As scheduled, Freel underwent surgery to remove a piece of cartilage from his right knee, a problem he's been dealing with for the majority of the month. The Reds expect the utilityman to be sidelined for the next 2-3 weeks, but with the playoffs likely out of reach, the team will not rush Freel back too quickly.

Brandon Watson, cin

Watson has been optioned to Triple-A New Orleans by the Washington Nationals, opening a spot on the roster for lefthander John Halama. The 23-year-old outfielder has appeared in five games with the Nationals since making his major league debut earlier this month, going 3-for-19 with a home run and two RBI.

8/17/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey continued to swing a hot bat in Tuesday's loss to the San Francisco Giants, homering for the third consecutive game. Over that span, the Reds' veteran outfielder has three multihit performances, going 8-for-13 (.615) with a walk and four RBI. He has 14 home runs since July 1 (39 games).

Aaron Holbert, cin

The Cincinnati Reds have purchased Holbert's contract from Triple-A Louisville, filling the roster spot of utilityman Ryan Freel, who is scheduled to undergo arthroscopic knee surgery on Thursday. Holbert has appeared in 68 games with the minor league club in 2005, batting .304 with seven home runs and 23 RBI.

8/16/2005

Ryan Freel, cin

On Tuesday, the Cincinnati Reds placed Freel on the 15-day disabled list. He will undergo surgery on his right knee in an attempt to repair torn cartilage. Freel left Monday's game due to a sore right quadriceps muscle, but the tear was not revealed until he had an MRI done on his right leg. For the season, the speedy utilityman was batting .282 with 51 runs scored and 29 stolen bases.

8/14/2005

Ryan Franklin, cin

In his first start since serving his suspension for violation of the MLB drug policy, Franklin was rudely welcomed back by the Angels, who chased him after 4.1 innings with 12 hits and eight runs in a 9-1 romp over the Mariners.

8/13/2005

Juan Castro, cin

The Minnesota Twins placed Castro on the 15-day disabled list Saturday with right knee tendinitis.

Scott Hatteberg, cin

Hatteberg was back in Oakland's lineup Saturday after missing the previous six games with a strained right rib cage.

8/12/2005

Ryan Franklin, cin

Franklin completes his 10-day suspension for performance-enhancing drugs Friday, and the Mariners' righthander is expected to return to the Seattle rotation Saturday to face Bartolo Colon and the Angels. He is 6-11 with a 4.61 ERA in 20 starts and a pair of relief appearances this season.

8/11/2005

Juan Castro, cin

In Minnesota's 14-inning victory over Seattle on Wednesday, Castro twisted his knee rounding first after an eighth-inning single, and he departed for a pinch-runner. The Twins' infielder, who is batting .258 with a .279 on-base percentage in 80 games, is day-to-day.

Scott Hatteberg, cin

Hatteberg did some hitting Wednesday, the day after he was a late scratch for a nagging oblique injury. The Oakland DH-first baseman won't play on Thursday, but the door is open for a Friday return, when the A's host Minnesota. If Hatteberg can't play on Friday night, he becomes a candidate for the disabled list. He is hitting .280 with five home runs and 47 RBI in 94 games this season.

8/10/2005

Chris Hammond, cin

Hammond has been activated from the 15-day disabled list by the San Diego Padres after missing nearly three weeks with a strained neck. The 39-year-old lefthander, who takes the roster spot of starter Adam Eaton, is 5-1 with a 2.96 ERA in 37 relief appearances this season.

Scott Hatteberg, cin

Hatteberg was a late scratch after batting practice Tuesday, as a nagging right oblique strain forced him out of the Oakland lineup. The A's DH-first baseman, who is batting .280 with five home runs and 47 RBI in 94 games this season, is day-to-day.

Ryan Freel, cin

After going 19 at-bats without a hit, Freel got back on track in Wednesday's meeting with the Chicago Cubs, belting a solo home run on the first pitch he saw. The Reds' utilityman was 2-for-3 with three RBI and two runs scored before leaving with a strained right quadriceps midway through the game.

Alex Sanchez, cin

Sanchez, who's been on the 15-day disabled list since July 24 with a sprained left elbow, was designated for assignment by the San Francisco Giants late on Tuesday. After being claimed off waivers from the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, the outfielder appeared in just 19 games with the Giants, going 11-for-43 (.256) with three RBI and two stolen bases.

Brandon Watson, cin

Watson had quite the major league debut, going 2-for-5 with a double and home run in Tuesday's victory over the Houston Astros. The outfielder, who was recalled by the Nationals earlier this week, should see plenty of playing time over the next several days, at least until Jose Guillen is able to return from a nagging shoulder injury.

8/9/2005

Ryan Freel, cin

Freel's funk continued in Monday's game against the Chicago Cubs, as he went 0-for-5 with a strikeout. The Reds' utilityman has failed to record a hit in his last 19 at-bats and his season batting average has dropped from .307 to .284 over that span as a result.

Adam Dunn, cin

Dunn went 2-for-5 and belted another home run in Monday's win over the Chicago Cubs, increasing his season total to 33, tied with Derrek Lee for second-most in the major leagues. The Reds' outfielder has been swinging a hot bat since the All-Star break, hitting .325 with 10 home runs, 28 RBI and a .783 slugging percentage.

Brandon Claussen, cin

Despite walking five batters, Claussen held the Chicago Cubs scoreless through seven solid innings in Monday's 9-4 victory, notching his third win in as many starts. The Reds' lefthander allowed just two hits during his time on the mound and struck out three.

Mike Gosling, cin

Gosling has been optioned to Triple-A Tucson by the Arizona Diamondbacks, opening a spot on the roster for catcher Kelly Stinnett, who was activated from the 15-day disabled list. In 13 appearances with Arizona this season, including five starts, the lefthander is 0-3 with a 4.45 ERA.

8/8/2005

Brandon Watson, cin

The Washington Nationals have recalled Watson from Triple-A New Orleans, replacing the struggling Matt Cepicky on the roster. The outfielder, who will be making his major league debut, was batting .357 with 20 RBI and 26 steals in 73 games with the minor league club this season.

8/4/2005

Anderson Machado, cin

Machado was outrighted to Triple-A Colorado Springs.

8/3/2005

Adam Dunn, cin

Dunn was named the National League Player of the Month Tuesday. In 28 games, Dunn belted a league high 11 home runs, driving in 31 runs while scoring 24 times. His .701 slugging percentage was also the best in the league, as he totaled 19 extra base hits among his 27 hits in July.

Edwin Encarnacion, cin

The rookie third baseman played errorless ball in his first 17 games with Cincinnati this season. Encarnacion was charged with his first major league error in the Reds' win over San Diego on Sunday. Then he committed three errors in a 12-2 loss to Atlanta on Tuesday. The last Reds third baseman to make three errors in one game was Willie Greene on April 9, 1996, against the Mets.

8/2/2005

Ryan Franklin, cin

Franklin was suspended 10 days Tuesday for violating Major League Baseball's steroids policy, the eighth big leaguer caught under the tougher rules enacted this year. The Seattle righthander is 6-11 with a 4.61 ERA in 20 starts and a pair of relief appearances this season.

8/1/2005

Todd Hollandsworth, cin

Hollandsworth looks like the person who will lose the most at-bats with the Cubs' acquisition of Matt Lawton on Sunday. Lawton will be the leadoff man the Cubs have been looking for, and the lefthanded hitter probably will start in left, where Hollandsworth has been getting most of the starts.

Brandon Phillips, cin

The Cleveland Indians optioned Phillips to Triple-A Buffalo on Monday. The middle-infield prospect, who had been with the Tribe for three weeks, spent most of his time working on shortening his swing with hitting coach Derek Shelton. He went 0-for-9 with four strikeouts in six games with Cleveland.

7/31/2005

Chris Hammond, cin

The San Diego Padres placed Hammond on the 15-day disabled list Friday with a neck sprain. The team recalled rookie lefthander Craig Breslow to replace Hammond in the pen. The 39-year-old veteran is 5-1 with a 2.96 ERA in 45.2 innings with San Diego.

David Ross, cin

Any notion that Ross would be the primary catcher in San Diego went out the window when the Padres acquired Miguel Olivo from Seattle late on Saturday. Ross was acquired from Pittsburgh just before the weekend, after starting catcher Ramon Hernandez went down with a wrist injury that required arthroscopic surgery.

Anderson Machado, cin

After a week on the Colorado roster, Machado has been designated for assignment.

Alex Graman, cin

The New York Yankees continue to shuffle players in and out of their bullpen. After optioning veteran Wayne Franklin and recalling Graman a little more than a week ago, the Yankees reversed course and recalled Franklin on Friday while designating Graman for assignment. The 27-year-old Graman made two relief appearances and allowed runs in both of them. He worked 1.1 innings, gave up a pair of runs and posted a 13.50 ERA.

7/29/2005

Jason LaRue, cin

LaRue went yard for the first time since the All-Star break when he homered twice, driving in five runs, in a 6-1 Reds win over the Los Angeles Dodgers Thursday.

David Ross, cin

In search of a catcher after losing Ramon Hernandez to wrist surgery this week, the San Diego Padres acquired Ross from Pittsburgh Thursday for minor league shortstop J.J. Furmaniak. Ross, who was with Triple-A Indianapolis at the time of the trade, is expected to be in San Diego for Friday night's game against Cincinnati.

7/28/2005

Ryan Freel, cin

Freel had a productive night in Wednesday's 7-6 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Cincinnati Reds' infielder went 3-for-4 with a walk and two runs scored, while also setting a franchise record with five stolen bases. He is 9-for-24 (.375) with seven steals since returning from a month-long stint on the disabled list with inflammation and soreness in his left foot.

7/24/2005

Alex Sanchez, cin

The Giants placed Sanchez on the 15-day disabled list on Sunday with a sprained left elbow. The move comes on the same day that the team activated Marquis Grissom from the DL. Since he was claimed off waivers from Tampa Bay in late June, Sanchez has gone 11-for-43 (.256) in 19 games with San Francisco.

7/23/2005

Anderson Machado, cin

Machado was added to the Colorado Rockies' 25-man roster on Saturday after passing a team physical. Machado had been claimed off waivers from Cincinnati on Wednesday, but because he had offseason knee surgery, the infielder had to pass a physical before officially being added to the roster.

Edwin Encarnacion, cin

The Cincinnati Reds promoted Encarnacion from Triple-A Louisville on Saturday.

7/22/2005

Matt Kata, cin

The Arizona Diamondbacks have traded Kata to the Philadelphia Phillies in exchange for veteran reliever Tim Worrell. In 30 games (31 at-bats) at the major league level this season, the infielder is hitting .194 with a pair of doubles and no homers or RBI. With Triple-A Tucson, he was batting .312 with three home runs and 28 RBI in 45 contests.

7/21/2005

Javier Valentin, cin

Valentin belted another pair of home runs in Thursday's win over the Chicago Cubs, notching his second mulithomer performance in his last three games. The Reds' backup catcher has six hits in his last 10 at-bats, five of which have been home runs. He has 11 RBI over that span as well.

Aaron Harang, cin

The Reds had gone a club-record 94 games without a complete game this season before Harang went the distance in Wednesday's 9-3 victory over the Chicago Cubs. The big righthander allowed three runs on seven hits -- including two home runs -- in nine innings of work. He struck out one and did not walk a batter.

7/20/2005

David Weathers, cin

Weathers strained his lower back on a pitch that resulted in an Aramis Ramirez home run in Tuesday's loss to the Chicago Cubs, and he was forced to leave the game shortly thereafter. The Reds' veteran righthander will be re-evaluated on Wednesday to determine his status.

Royce Clayton, cin

Clayton finished a home run shy of hitting for the cycle in Tuesday's loss to the Florida Marlins, going a perfect 4-for-4 with three RBI. Over his last four games, the Diamondbacks' shortstop is 9-for-17 (.529) with two doubles, one triple and six RBI.

Ryan Freel, cin

After missing the last month with inflammation and soreness in his left foot, Freel has been activated from the 15-day disabled list by the Cincinnati Reds. The utilityman was batting .287 with two home runs, nine RBI and 21 stolen bases in 54 games this season prior to his injury. He fills the roster spot of infielder Anderson Machado, who was claimed off waivers by the Colorado Rockies on Wednesday.

Anderson Machado, cin

The Colorado Rockies have claimed Machado off waivers from the Cincinnati Reds. The infielder recently was activated from the disabled list after missing six months while recovering from major knee surgery. He is hitless with one strikeout in two at-bats this season.

Alex Graman, cin

On Wednesday, the New York Yankees optioned lefthander Wayne Franklin and recalled Graman from Triple-A Columbus. The 27-year-old lefthander will assume Franklin's role in the Yankees' bullpen.

7/19/2005

Brandon Claussen, cin

Claussen tied a Reds team record by surrendering five home runs in Monday's loss to the Chicago Cubs. Prior to his departure in the fourth, the lefthander had allowed seven runs on nine hits, striking out two and walking a pair in 3.2 innings of work -- one of his worst outings of the 2005 campaign.

7/18/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey homered for the third consecutive game, going 1-for-1 with three walks and two runs scored in Sunday's victory over the Colorado Rockies. The veteran center fielder has avoided the injuries that have plagued him since joining the Reds and quietly has posted some impressive totals this season. In 86 games, he is batting .290 with 20 home runs and 61 RBI.

Javier Valentin, cin

Valentin homered from both sides of the plate in Sunday's victory over the Colorado Rockies and finished the day with a career-high seven RBI. The Reds' catcher connected for a grand slam in the bottom of the sixth inning before adding a three-run shot in the eighth.

7/9/2005

Brandon Phillips, cin

Cleveland recalled Phillips from Triple-A Buffalo on Saturday, and immediately put him into the starting lineup at second base for that afternoon's game against the New York Yankees. Phillips has spent all year with the Triple-A club, batting .252 with 11 home runs and 33 RBI. To make room on their roster, the Indians optioned pitcher Brian Tallet to Buffalo.

David Ross, cin

In order to free up a roster spot for Craig Wilson, the Pirates optioned Ross to Triple-A Indianapolis on Saturday. The catcher was batting .222 with three homers and 15 RBI in his first season with Pittsburgh.

7/8/2005

Mike Gosling, cin

According to manager Bob Melvin, Gosling will step into the Diamondbacks' starting rotation for the time being, filling in for the injured Shawn Estes, who will be sidelined indefinitely with a stress reaction in his foot. In eight relief appearances this season, Gosling, a lefthander, is 0-2 with a 7.88 ERA.

7/6/2005

Anderson Machado, cin

Machado was forced to undergo major knee surgery after he was injured while playing winter baseball in Venezuela late last December. Following more than six months of rehabilitation, the infielder has been activated from the 15-day disabled list by the Cincinnati Reds. Edwin Encarnacion was optioned to the minor leagues to open a spot on the roster.

Edwin Encarnacion, cin

Opening a spot on the roster for infielder Anderson Machado, who is returning from major knee surgery, the Cincinnati Reds have optioned Encarnacion back to Triple-A Louisville. The 22-year-old third baseman made his major league debut last month and went 4-for-18 with a double and six strikeouts in 10 games with the Reds.

7/5/2005

Jason LaRue, cin

LaRue went 2-for-3 with a double, home run and a career-high six RBI on Monday, helping to lead the Reds to an 11-10 victory over the San Francisco Giants. Going into the contest, the catcher had just 26 RBI in his first 55 games of the 2005 campaign.

Matt Belisle, cin

According to Reds manager Jerry Narron, Belisle could be called upon in save situations more often. The righthander, who began the 2005 campaign in the starting rotation, notched his first career save by shutting down the San Francisco Giants in the final inning of Monday's 11-10 victory. For the year, he is 2-5 with a 4.13 ERA in 25 appearances, including five starts.

7/4/2005

Elizardo Ramirez, cin

Before Cincinnati's Monday showdown against San Francisco, the Reds outrighted Ricky Stone to the minors and recalled Ramirez to start the Fourth of July contest. The 22-year-old Ramirez was 2-1 with a 3.47 ERA for Triple-A Louisville. In five games (three starts) for the Reds earlier in the season, the righthander was 0-3 with a 6.75 ERA in 18.2 innings.

7/2/2005

Mike Gosling, cin

The Arizona Diamondbacks called Gosling up from Triple-A Tucson on Saturday. The left-handed reliever is 0-2 with a 9.00 ERA with the Diamondbacks in seven appearances this season. To make room on the roster, Arizona optioned Brandon Medders to Tucson.

Mike Gosling, cin

The Arizona Diamondbacks recalled Gosling from Triple-A Tucson on Saturday. The lefthanded reliever is 0-2 with a 9.00 ERA for the Diamondbacks in seven appearances this season. To make room on the roster, Arizona optioned Brandon Medders to Tucson.

7/1/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Although not yet fully recovered from the flu bug that knocked him out the previous two games, Griffey was back in the Reds' lineup for Thursday's meeting the the Houston Astros. The veteran slugger went 2-for-4 with an RBI and a strikeout in his return.

6/30/2005

Matt Kata, cin

With outfielder Luis Gonzalez returning from the bereavement list, the Arizona Diamondbacks have optioned Kata back to Triple-A Tucson to open a spot on the roster. The infielder has appeared in 30 games with the major league club this season, going 6-for-31 (.194) with two doubles and a triple.

6/29/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Battling the flu, Griffey was unavailable for Tuesday's game against the St. Louis Cardinals. The veteran outfielder, who was replaced in the Reds' lineup by Jason Romano, has been listed as day-to-day. He will be re-evaluated on Wednesday to determine his availability.

Ray Olmedo, cin

Olmedo made his 2005 season debut in Tuesday's loss to the St. Louis Cardinals, notching a stolen base as a pinch-runner. The infielder was recalled from Triple-A Louisville by the Reds earlier in the day, taking the roster spot of William Bergolla, who was optioned to the minor league club over the weekend.

6/27/2005

Brian Shackelford, cin

Shackelford has been recalled from Triple-A Louisville by the Cincinnati Reds, taking the roster spot of the injured Randy Keisler. In 31 appearances with the minor league club this season, the lefthander has posted a 1-6 record, 5.23 ERA and one save.

6/25/2005

Jason Standridge, cin

Standridge's first big league stint in a year ended in a week's time. The Texas Rangers designated him for assignment on Friday, in order to make room for veteran reliever Ron Mahay, who was coming off the disabled list. The 26-year-old Standridge made two appearances for Texas, allowing seven hits and three runs in 2.1 innings.

Ryan Freel, cin

The Reds have placed Freel on the 15-day disabled list with a sore toe. The move was made retroactive to June 19 when he first experienced the problem. Although Freel was batting .287 with two home runs and nine runs batted in, he was in the midst of a 3-for-27 slump. Outfielder Jason Romano was recalled from Triple-A Louisville to take Freel's place on the Reds roster.

Ryan Freel, cin

The Reds have placed Freel on the 15-day disabled list with a sore toe. The move was made retroactive to June 19, when he first experienced the problem. Although Freel was batting .287 with a .406 on-base percentage and 39 runs scored in 54 games, he was in the midst of a 3-for-27 slump. Outfielder Jason Romano was recalled from Triple-A Louisville to take Freel's place on the Reds' roster.

6/24/2005

Juan Castro, cin

Castro broke out of an 0-for-23 slump with a second-inning single in Minnesota's 6-2 win over Detroit on Thursday. The Twins' shortstop is in a 3-for-30 rut, and in his last 18 games, he has just 10 hits in 58 at-bats (.172). For the season, Castro is batting .232 with a .257 on-base percentage.

Edwin Encarnacion, cin

Encarnacion has been recalled from Triple-A Louisville by the Cincinnati Reds, taking the place of injured outfielder Kenny Kelly. The 22-year-old third baseman, who was batting .292 with 12 home runs and 46 RBI in 69 games with the minor league club, should make his major league debut in this weekend's series against the Cleveland Indians.

6/23/2005

Alex Sanchez, cin

Sanchez, who was designated for assignment by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays last week, has been claimed off waivers by the San Francisco Giants. The outfielder is scheduled to join the team in time for the start of its weekend series against the A's in Oakland on Friday. He was released by the Tigers in spring training before inking with the Rays.

6/22/2005

Adam Dunn, cin

Dunn led off the second and third innings of Wednesday's win over the St. Louis Cardinals with solo home runs, notching his fourth multihomer game of the season and 13th of his major league career. For the year, the Reds' outfielder is batting .251 with 20 home runs, 41 RBI and three stolen bases.

6/21/2005

Juan Castro, cin

After missing three games with a bruised ankle, Castro was back in the Twins' lineup, starting at shortstop on Tuesday. Through 45 games this season, Castro is hitting .234 with 12 runs scored and 14 RBI.

Ryan Freel, cin

Freel has missed the Reds' last two games, due to a sore toe. The utilityman, who has seen action at five different positions this season, should return to the lineup within the next couple of days. He is batting .287 with two home runs, nine RBI and 21 stolen bases in 54 contests this season.

6/20/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey's three-run homer in the eighth inning Sunday not only ended a six-game Cincinnati losing streak, it also pushed the Reds' center fielder into 16th place on the all-time home-run leader board. The 35-year-old Griffey secured an 11-8 Reds win over Atlanta with the 513th homer of his career.

William Bergolla, cin

With Luis Lopez sidelined indefinitely with a strained hamstring, the Cincinnati Reds have recalled Bergolla from Triple-A Louisville to fill the open spot on the roster. The infielder made his major league debut with the Reds earlier this season, going 5-for-35 with an RBI and nine strikeouts in 15 games.

6/17/2005

Juan Castro, cin

Castro fouled a pitch off his left ankle Thursday, and he left Minnesota's 14-7 loss to San Francisco early to get an X-ray. The results were negative, but the Twins' shortstop will be out a few days. Castro is batting .234 with a .261 on-base percentage in 45 games this season.

Paul Wilson, cin

Friday's exploratory surgery on Wilson's ailing right shoulder revealed tears in the labrum and rotator cuff, which were repaired and will sideline the Cincinnati righthander for the remainder of the 2005 season. It's the second time that the 32-year-old veteran suffered a torn labrum. He also had one in 1996 during his tenure with the New York Mets.

Jason Standridge, cin

A little more than a year after his last big league appearance with Tampa Bay, Standridge was recalled by the Texas Rangers Friday after the club designated veteran Pedro Astacio for assignment. Standridge will work out of the Texas bullpen. The 26-year-old righthander was 5-3 with a 4.50 ERA in 15 games (10 starts) for Triple-A Oklahoma.

6/15/2005

Jason LaRue, cin

The Cincinnati Reds removed LaRue from the bereavement list on Wednesday, making him eligible for the evening's tilt against Boston at Fenway Park. The Reds' starting catcher returns with a .238 average, five homers and 23 RBI in 44 games.

Dane Sardinha, cin

Sardinha's stay with the Reds lasted just a few days, as the catcher was optioned back to Triple-A Louisville when starting catcher Jason LaRue returned from his brief stint on the bereavement list. Sardinha went 0-for-3 Tuesday in his only appearance with the Reds. He also appeared in a game in 2003, and he's now 0-for-5 with two strikeouts as a major leaguer.

6/14/2005

Eddie Guardado, cin

Guardado has been pitching with some elbow discomfort. The Seattle closer already is working with a torn rotator cuff, and it's possible that has put more strain on his pitching elbow. Guardado's shoulder hasn't kept him from putting together an impressive 2005 season. Despite a loss of velocity caused by the shoulder injury, he is 0-1 with 17 saves and a stellar 1.57 ERA.

Paul Wilson, cin

Wilson is scheduled to have exploratory arthroscopic surgery on his right shoulder Friday. The procedure could involve repairing a tear in the labrum or cleaning it up. Whatever needs to be done will be done on the table by Reds medical director Dr. Tim Kremchek.

Alex Sanchez, cin

On Monday, the Tampa Bay Devil Rays designated their leading hitter for assignment. Sanchez was given his walking papers despite leading the Rays with a .346 average. The 28-year-old outfielder was batting .372 and slugging .500 in 31 games since the start of May.

6/13/2005

Mike Burns, cin

The Houston Astros recalled Burns over the weekend to provide some relief for the Astros' overworked bullpen. The 26-year-old righthander posted a 10.13 ERA in four relief appearances during a mid-May stint with Houston. He has been successful this spring as the closer for Triple-A Round Rock.

6/12/2005

Jason LaRue, cin

The Reds place LaRue on the bereavement list on Sunday, and the team's starting catcher returned to Texas to attend his grandfather's funeral. LaRue will miss Sunday's game against Baltimore, as well as Monday and Tuesday matchups versus Boston at Fenway Park. He will be eligible to return to the field on Wednesday. In the meantime, the Reds called up Dane Sardinha to assist with the catching duties.

6/9/2005

Elizardo Ramirez, cin

On Thursday, the Cincinnati Reds activated righthander Luke Hudson from the disabled list and optioned Ramirez to Triple-A Louisville to make room for him. Ramirez made five appearances (three starts) for the Reds, posting an 0-3 record and 6.75 ERA in 18.2 innings. Ramirez will work as a starter at Louisville.

6/3/2005

Jason LaRue, cin

LaRue does not plan to miss any time going forward despite suffering a hairline fracture in his left wrist during a game more than a week ago. The Reds' catcher, who missed four games with the injury, admitted that the wrist is sore, but he hopes to play through the pain.

5/31/2005

Aaron Harang, cin

Questionable for Monday's start because of lingering effects from the flu, Harang took the mound anyway, and it was a good thing for the Reds that he did. The righthander scattered five hits over seven shutout innings to record the win. He walked just one batter and struck out 10, tying a career high.

Brendan Harris, cin

Harris has been optioned back to Triple-A New Orleans by the Washington Nationals, opening a spot on the roster for veteran infielder Wil Cordero, who was activated from the 15-day disabled list on Monday. Harris appeared in just four games during his short stint with the major league club, going 3-for-9 with a double, home run and three RBI.

5/29/2005

Rich Aurilia, cin

The Reds activated Rich Aurilia to their major league roster, and sent William Bergolla to their Triple-A club in Louisville.

5/26/2005

Alex Sanchez, cin

Sanchez left Tampa Bay's 14-6 win over Oakland Wednesday, after fouling a ball off his right shin in the fourth inning. The team said X-rays were negative and listed the outfielder as day-to-day with a bruise.

5/25/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

After failing to record a hit in his previous 16 at-bats, Griffey got back on track in Wednesday's meeting with the Washington Nationals, going a perfect 3-for-3 with two walks and two runs scored. The veteran slugger, who moved up to third in the Reds' batting order for the first time this season, is batting .253 with six home runs and 27 RBI in 44 games in 2005.

David Weathers, cin

With Danny Graves being designated for assignment earlier this week, the Reds have turned to Weathers to close the team's last two contests. The veteran righthander struck out two and notched the save in Monday's victory over the Nationals, but blew the save by allowing a walk and a hit in Tuesday's action.

Paul Wilson, cin

After further evaluation, Wilson has been diagnosed with tendinitis in his pitching shoulder, and the Reds have decided to place him on the 15-day disabled list. The move is retroactive to May 17, as the righthander has been skipped the last two times through the starting rotation. Outfielder Jason Romano has been called up from the minor leagues to fill the roster spot.

Aaron Harang, cin

Harang was scheduled to take the mound against the Washington Nationals on Wednesday, but he was a late scratch after coming down with flu-like symptoms. In the righthander's absence, Matt Belisle got the nod -- his fourth start of the 2005 campaign. Harang is listed as day-to-day.

5/24/2005

Bronson Arroyo, cin

Tuesday marks the final day of Arroyo's six-game suspension for his role in the Tampa Bay-Boston melee in April. The 26-year-old righthander will start for Boston on Wednesday, squaring off against rookie lefthander Gustavo Chacin and the Toronto Blue Jays. Arroyo is 4-0 with a 3.21 ERA in eight starts.

Ryan Freel, cin

After resting his ailing back for four days and missing three games, Freel was back in the Cincinnati Reds' lineup for Monday's meeting with the Washington Nationals, going 1-for-5 with a stolen base. In 34 contests this season, the utilityman is batting .310 with two RBI, 11 stolen bases and 21 runs scored.

5/23/2005

Paul Wilson, cin

For the second consecutive time through the starting rotation, the Reds will skip the struggling Wilson, and he will not pitch in their upcoming three-game series against the Washington Nationals, as had been scheduled. The righthander, who has not taken the mound in a week, could return to action this weekend.

Brendan Harris, cin

Harris has been recalled from Triple-A New Orleans by the Washington Nationals, filling the roster spot of outfielder Jeffrey Hammonds, who will miss at least a couple of weeks with a right hamstring injury. The infielder was batting .279 with six home runs and 29 RBI in 42 games with the minor league club this season.

Mike Burns, cin

Opening a spot on the roster for Wandy Rodriguez, who will get the starting nod against the Chicago Cubs on Monday, the Houston Astros have optioned Burns to Triple-A Round Rock. The righthander has appeared in four games with the Astros this season, allowing six runs on 10 hits -- including three home runs -- over 5.1 innings.

5/22/2005

Ryan Freel, cin

Freel has been nursing a sore back in recent days, and he has missed both of the first two games of the Ohio series between Cincinnati and Cleveland. On Saturday, the Reds' second baseman said he was responding to treatment and feeling better, but he is not in the starting lineup for Sunday's finale between the Reds and Indians.

5/21/2005

Eddie Guardado, cin

Guardado has returned to the team after missing Seattle's last two games in order to be with his wife when she gave birth to the couple's third child, a daughter. Guardado is 0-1 with a 2.25 ERA and 10 saves for the Mariners so far this season.

5/19/2005

Joe Mays, cin

On Thursday afternoon, Mays turned in his best outing since returning from Tommy John surgery. The 29-year-old righthander blanked the Toronto Blue Jays on seven hits in a 4-0 Minnesota victory. It was the 10th complete game and sixth shutout of Mays' career. He hadn't posted either since blanking Boston on two hits on August 16, 2002.

Matt Kata, cin

Kata has been recalled from Triple-A Tucson by the Arizona Diamondbacks, filling the roster spot of injured closer Brandon Lyon. The infielder was with the major league club earlier this season, going 5-for-23 with a double, triple and five walks in 21 games.

5/18/2005

Juan Castro, cin

Over the last week, Castro has emerged as the Twins' starting shortstop after rookie Jason Bartlett has struggled both offensively and defensively in May. Castro's defensive stability appeals to Minnesota manager Ron Gardenhire.

Paul Wilson, cin

Wilson was in line to take the mound during the Reds' three-games series against the Cleveland Indians this weekend, but because of his recent struggles, the team has decided to skip his spot in the starting rotation. Aaron Harang, Elizardo Ramirez and Ramon Ortiz are the scheduled starters.

5/16/2005

Grant Balfour, cin

Balfour's Tommy John surgery on Friday the 13th went off without a hitch. Reportedly there were no complications in the procedure, which will sideline the Minnesota reliever until sometime in the 2006 season. He didn't appear in a game during the 2005 campaign.

5/15/2005

Jason LaRue, cin

LaRue will be out of the Reds' starting lineup on Sunday, as reserve catcher Javier Valentin will get the call. Although LaRue sat out a few games earlier in the week due to lack of production, this day off is caused strictly by a language barrier between he and Sunday's starting pitcher, Elizardo Ramirez. LaRue should be back behind the plate for Cincinnati next week.

5/13/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey's hot hitting continued in Thursday's victory over the Philadelphia Phillies, as the veteran outfielder went 3-for-5 with a home run, two RBI and three runs scored. Since seeing his batting average dip to a season-low .200 on April 23, Griffey has been on a tear, raising his average to .283. He has hit safely in 15 of his last 16 games, batting .354 with seven doubles, four home runs and 14 RBI.

It took Griffey 79 at-bats to record his first home run of this year, which was his longest-ever drought to open a season. But it now appears that he is dialed in, so as long as he can avoid injury, Griffey is a solid start on your fantasy squad.

Adam Dunn, cin

Dunn had just five hits in his last 43 at-bats (.116) going into Thursday's meeting with the Philadelphia Phillies. The Reds' outfielder began working his way out his slump, going 2-for-3 with two home runs, two runs scored, one walk and a stolen base. Dunn connected for a two-run homer in the fifth inning and added a three-run shot in his next at-bat to tie a career-high with five RBI in the game. Dunn has three multihomer games already this season.

Despite his high strikeout totals and mediocre batting average, Dunn posts solid totals in most other fantasy categories. In 33 games this season, he is batting .264 with 10 doubles, 10 home runs, 22 RBI and three stolen bases. He has struck out 31 times, but walked 27 times and boasts a .426 on-base percentage.

Brandon Claussen, cin

Claussen continues to show improvement after being hit on the pitching arm by a line drive and twisting his left ankle as he fell to the ground in Tuesday's game against the Padres. The Reds' lefthander was scheduled to make his next start against the Philadelphia Phillies on Sunday, but will be held out as a precautionary measure. Elizardo Ramirez will take the mound in his absence.

A trip to the disabled list is not expected at this point, and Claussen should be ready for his next turn in the starting rotation. In five outings this season, he is 1-3 with a 4.71 ERA.

Elizardo Ramirez, cin

Ramirez will make the first start of his major league career when he takes the mound against Vicente Padilla and the Philadelphia Phillies on Sunday. The righthander is filling in for Brandon Claussen, who was forced to leave his last start after suffering a bruised pitching arm and sprained left ankle when he was hit by a line drive.

Ramirez will move back to the bullpen or return to the minor leagues once Claussen has recovered. In eight career relief appearances, he has posted a 4.76 ERA, striking out 10 and walking seven in 17 innings of work.

Mike Burns, cin

One of the top relievers in the Pacific Coast League this season, Burns has been recalled from Triple-A Round Rock by the Houston Astros. The righthander, who takes the roster spot of the struggling Brandon Duckworth, is 2-0 with a 0.48 ERA and 10 saves for the minor league club in 2005. He has fanned 21 batters in 18.2 innings of work.

With Brad Lidge having a firm grasp on the Astros' closer job, the team won't turn to Burns in save situations. He will pitch in middle relief for the time being.

5/11/2005

Rich Aurilia, cin

Aurilia strained his left hamstring while running out a grounder in the second inning of Tuesday's win over the San Diego Padres, and the injury has landed the veteran shortstop on the 15-day disabled list for the Cincinnati Reds. Righthander Elizardo Ramirez has been recalled from Triple-A Louisville to fill the void on the roster.

In Aurilia's absence, Felipe Lopez should see the majority of time at shortstop, but William Bergolla likely will figure into the mix as well. Aurilia has just four hits in his last 32 at-bats, and Reds manager Dave Miley had moved him up in the lineup on Tuesday to try to get him out of his slump.

Jason LaRue, cin

Hitless in his last 19 at-bats, LaRue has been absent from the Cincinnati Reds' starting lineup each of the last two days. The veteran catcher, who was replaced by Javier Valentin, should return to regular duty on Wednesday.

LaRue has been a disappointment so far this year, batting just .175 with no home runs, six RBI and 34 strikeouts in 26 games (80 at-bats). He has averaged 13.5 homers over the past four seasons.

Brandon Claussen, cin

Claussen was forced to leave Tuesday's game against the San Diego Padres after taking a line drive off his pitching arm. After being hit by the ball, the Reds' lefthander fell to the ground and twisted his left ankle on the way down. Precautionary X-rays on the ankle were negative, and he was walking with a slight limp after the game. Prior to his departure, Claussen had allowed just three hits in 3.1 scoreless innings, striking out two and walking one.

Claussen will be re-evaluated over the next couple of days to determine if he will be ready for his next start. At this point, consider him questionable. In five outings this season, he is 1-3 with a 4.71 ERA.

Elizardo Ramirez, cin

With shortstop Rich Aurilia landing on the 15-day disabled list with a strained hamstring, the Cincinnati Reds have filled the hole on the roster by recalling Ramirez from Triple-A Louisville. The righthander has made six starts for the minor league club this season, going 2-1 with 3.32 ERA. He has 27 strikeouts and just five walks in 38 innings of work.

Brandon Claussen currently is questionable for his next start after taking a line drive off his pitching arm and spraining his left ankle on Tuesday. If he isn't ready for his next turn in the rotation, Ramirez will fill in.

5/10/2005

Bronson Arroyo, cin

According to a report in the Boston Globe, Arroyo plans to make his scheduled start on Monday, May 16, in Oakland. Then the 28-year-old righthander would drop his appeal of his six-game suspension and start serving it on May 17. The Red Sox have two off days during the subsequent stretch, which would allow the injury-riddled rotation to cover for Arroyo while he is out. Under this scenario, he would be eligible to pitch again on May 25 against the Blue Jays.

Arroyo had appealed a six-game suspension for his role in a bench-clearing melee between Tampa Bay and Boston in April.

Aaron Harang, cin

If it would have not been for the Reds' bullpen blowing a four-run lead in the ninth inning, Harang was in line to notch the victory in Monday's game against the San Diego Padres. The righthander allowed just one run on three hits in eight innings of work, striking out eight and walking two. He did not figure into the decision.

Harang has pitched well overall this season, but has just one win to show for it. In seven starts, he is 1-2 with a 3.45 ERA, along with 34 strikeouts and 14 walks in 44.1 innings.

Matt Kata, cin

Needing to open a roster spot for outfielder Jose Cruz Jr, the Arizona Diamondbacks have optioned Kata to Triple-A Tucson. The switch-hitting infielder has seen limited action this season, batting .200 with a double and triple in 21 games (25 at-bats).

Joining the minor league club will allow Kata to play on a daily basis and hopefully regain his stroke at the plate.

Todd Coffey, cin

Despite posting a gaudy 11.25 ERA in three appearances during his first stint with Cincinnati this season, Coffey has been recalled from Triple-A Louisville by the Reds. The righthander takes the roster spot of fellow reliever Ben Weber, who will be sidelined indefinitely with a bulging disc in his neck.

Coffey does not warrant a spot on your fantasy squad.

William Bergolla, cin

Bergolla made his major league debut in Monday night's game against the San Diego Padres, serving as a pinch-runner late in the contest. The infielder was recalled from Triple-A Louisville by the Cincinnati Reds earlier in the day, filling the roster spot of injured outfielder Wily Mo Pena.

Bergolla will serve as a backup middle infielder, so his fantasy value will be extremely limited. He was batting .298 through 29 games with the minor league club this season.

5/9/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey connected for a solo homer in the fourth inning of Sunday's loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, extending his current hitting streak to 12 games. Over that span, the Reds' veteran outfielder is 15-for-48 (.313) with five doubles, three home runs and 11 RBI.

Before going on his recent tear, Griffey saw his batting average drop to a season-low .200. It also took him 79 at-bats to record his first home run of this year, which was his longest-ever drought to open a season. As long as he can avoid injury, Griffey is a solid start on your fantasy squad, especially if he continues to produce on a consistent basis.

5/6/2005

Jimmy Journell, cin

Journell, who was recalled last month to fill in for the ailing Cal Eldred, is on his way back to Triple-A Memphis to work on his control problems. In five appearances with the Cardinals this season, the righthander has gone 0-1, allowing five earned runs on six hits in 4.1 innings. He's struck out five and walked five.

The Cardinals have recalled Brad Thompson to fill the void in the bullpen.

5/5/2005

Bronson Arroyo, cin

During Boston's Thursday afternoon affair with Detroit, Arroyo took a no-hitter into the seventh before losing both the no-no and the shutout on a Carlos Guillen home run with one out. The longball knotted the game at 1-1, but Arroyo worked eight three-hit innings to claim a 2-1 Boston victory.

5/3/2005

Kyle Lohse, cin

Lohse left his Thursday afternoon start against Kansas City, but Friday's MRI exam revealed nothing more than a muscle strain. He is listed as day-to-day, and his next start is tentatively scheduled for May 7 at Tampa Bay.

This may not be the last on Lohse's shoulder. Keep track of news on his health status. In four starts this year, Lohse is 1-2 with a 6.65 ERA in four starts.

Grant Balfour, cin

Balfour's exploratory surgery last week revealed a torn ligament, and the Twins' righthander will undergo reconstructive surgery on his right elbow on Friday, the 13th of May. He will miss the rest of the season.

Balfour became an important contributor in the Minnesota bullpen last summer. He'll be missed in 2005, but the blow has been lessened by the emergence of another talented righthander, Jesse Crain. Balfour will be working to return early in the 2006 season.

Grant Balfour, cin

Balfour's exploratory surgery last week revealed a torn ligament, and the Twins' righthander will undergo reconstructive surgery on his right elbow. He will miss the rest of the season.

5/2/2005

Rheal Cormier, cin

Cormier has been battling a sore right hip since injuring himself while warming up in the bullpen last week. The Phillies' lefthander was unavailable for Sunday's game against the Florida Marlins, but reported improvement in the hip and said he should be ready within the next couple of days.

As a middle reliever, Cormier doesn't have much fantasy value. In nine appearances this season, he is 1-1 with a 5.14 ERA.

5/1/2005

Todd Coffey, cin

Coffey has been optioned to Triple-A Louisville by the Cincinnati Reds, opening a spot on the roster for starter Ramon Ortiz, who was activated from the 15-day disabled list in time to start Sunday's game against the Milwaukee Brewers. Coffey appeared in three games during his short stint with the Reds, posting an 11.25 ERA.

4/30/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Griffey hit his first home run of the 2005 campaign on Saturday. He had not homered in his first 79 at-bats this season, which was his longest-ever drought to open a season.

For the year, Griffey is batting .244 with seven doubles, nine RBI and seven runs scored in 22 games. He's struck out 22 times in 82 at-bats.

4/29/2005

Bronson Arroyo, cin

The sentences have been handed down for last weekend's bench-clearing scuffles between Tampa Bay and Boston, and Arroyo received the harshest punishment. The Red Sox' righthander was given a six-game suspension after hitting the Rays' Chris Singleton with a pitch in the seventh inning after both teams had been warned. Arroyo also hit Aubrey Huff in the sixth inning.

All four players who were issued suspensions were fined an undisclosed amount of money as well. The suspensions are to begin on Friday, but the players can file an appeal, which would allow them to continue playing until their appeal has been heard.

Kyle Lohse, cin

Lohse had difficulties getting loose for his Thursday afternoon start against Kansas City, and the Twins' righthander left during the fifth inning. He never was able to get loose and felt something in his shoulder before departing. Lohse, who has never missed time because of an injury, will have an MRI exam in the Twin Cities on Friday.

4/28/2005

Joe Mays, cin

While Mays didn't turn in a quality start Wednesday night in Kansas City, as he did in Cleveland on April 17, he won his first major league game since June 19, 2003. His last win also came in Kansas City against the Royals, but Wednesday's victory was his first since the Minnesota righthander underwent Tommy John surgery late in the 2003 season.

Mays allowed eight hits and fours over six innings on Wednesday, and the Twins claimed a 9-4 decision. Through three starts and a relief appearance in 2005, Mays is 1-0 with 4.05 ERA. He didn't pitch at all in 2004.

4/27/2005

Eric Milton, cin

Milton's struggles with the longball continued in Tuesday's game against the Chicago Cubs, as he surrendered four more home runs, increasing his season total to a league-leading 10. The Reds' lefthander was pulled from Tuesday's contest after allowing eight runs on 11 hits in just five innings of work, but did not figure into the decision.

In five starts this season, Milton is 2-2 with a 6.75 ERA. He gave up 43 homers in 34 outings in 2004, so his problems to start this season aren't a huge surprise.

Grant Balfour, cin

The MRI exam of Balfour's elbow has proven inconclusive. The Twins' righthander will have exploratory surgery on the elbow Wednesday in Cincinnati. The procedure is expected to determine whether more extensive surgery is necessary. It's possible that Balfour's surgeon will determine the need for Tommy John surgery at a later date.

Balfour prefered to undergo Tommy John surgery immediately, in order to get his rehab work underway immediately and not delay what he believes is inevitable. He agreed to the Twins' plan, though neither option leaves much room for Balfour contributing in the Minnesota bullpen anytime soon.

4/25/2005

Juan Castro, cin

Castro woke up with a stiff neck on Monday, and he was unable to play in Minnesota's Monday afternoon contest against Detroit. Castro was penciled in to start after rookie Jason Bartlett tore the fingernail off his left pinky finger on Sunday, but Nick Punto -- the only remaining shortstop on the roster -- got the call on Monday. Castro is day-to-day.

Joe Mays, cin

Mays, whose Sunday start was the second of two Twins contests in Detroit cancelled by snow over the weekend, won't take the mound again until Wednesday in Kansas City.

All of Minnesota's starters, except Johan Santana, were the recipients of at least one extra day of rest because of the weather. Mays, the fifth starter, got an extra three days between starts. He's 0-0 with a 3.21 ERA in a pair of starts and one relief appearance so far in 2005.

Grant Balfour, cin

Balfour's injury, which has been called a strained forearm, may be something more serious. After the 27-year-old reliever was examined by team physician Dr. Dan Buss on Friday, an MRI exam has been ordered. The righthander has been on the disabled list since late March.

Mike Gosling, cin

After posting an 0-2 record and 9.00 ERA in seven relief appearances to begin the 2005 campaign, Gosling has been optioned to Triple-A Tucson by the Arizona Diamondbacks. The 24-year-old lefthander will be replaced in the bullpen by Javier Lopez, who was called up from the minor league club on Sunday.

4/21/2005

Rich Aurilia, cin

Aurilia showed he still has some pop in his bat. The Reds' 33-year-old shortstop, who had six home runs in 124 games all of last season, belted two homers in Wednesday's win over the Pittsburgh Pirates. Following a two-run homer in the fourth inning, Aurilia tagged a solo shot to left field in the seventh.

Aurilia is batting just .205 in 10 games to start the season, but he remains the Reds' top option at shortstop. Felipe Lopez and Ryan Freel could get an occasional start at the position as well.

4/19/2005

Adam Dunn, cin

Dunn led off the second inning of Monday's game against the Chicago Cubs by belting a solo home run off righthander Kerry Wood. The Reds' outfielder, who had not homered since Opening Day, followed suit in the fourth, going deep with another solo shot. He now has 11 career multihomer games in his major league career.

You have to take the bad with the good when it comes to Dunn. In 37 at-bats so far this season, he's connected for four home runs, but has fanned 13 times and is batting just .243 In 161 games last year, he hit .266 with 46 home runs, 102 RBI, 108 walks and 195 strikeouts.

Todd Coffey, cin

Coffey has been recalled from Triple-A Louisville by the Cincinnati Reds. The righthander will fill the void in the Reds' bullpen while reliever Matt Belisle takes over the starting rotation spot of the injured Ramon Ortiz. In 10 appearances with the Reds in spring training, Coffey went 2-1 with a 10.64 ERA and one save.

Coffey will be making his major league debut. He likely won't be with the Reds for an extended period, so he has no fantasy value.

4/18/2005

Eddie Guardado, cin

Guardado still seems to be shaking off the rust of missing the second half of the 2004 season and battling a hamstring injury this spring. The Seattle closer gave up two hits and a ninth-inning run to the White Sox on Sunday, though he got the save in a 5-4 Mariners win. The lefty has given up runs in two of his last three save opportunities. His only perfect inning came in his 2005 debut on April 4, the only time he has pitched in a non-save situation.

For the season, Guardado is 0-1 with a 3.60 ERA and three saves in four chances. Batters are 7-for-21 (.333) facing the 34-year-old closer.

Gary Majewski, cin

Majewski has been recalled from Triple-A New Orleans by the Washington Nationals, filling the roster spot of fellow righthander Antonio Osuna. In three appearances with the minor league club this season, he has a 4.26 ERA in 6.1 innings.

Majewski struggled a bit with his control this spring and was one of the final demotions before the start of the regular season. He allowed seven earned runs on 11 hits and eight walks in 10.2 innings, striking out 10 over that span.

Matt Belisle, cin

Belisle will remain in the Cincinnati Reds' starting rotation for the time being, as righthander Ramon Ortiz has been placed on the 15-day disabled list with a strained right groin. Belisle got the nod against the Cardinals last Wednesday in Ortiz' stead and gave up just one run on four hits in five innings of work. He struck out six, walked one and picked up the win.

Belisle is scheduled to take the mound against Kerry Wood and the Chicago Cubs on Monday. Ortiz' injury is not considered serious, so he should be back within the next couple of weeks.

4/15/2005

Alex Sanchez, cin

As anticipated, Sanchez made his season debut with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in Thursday's game against the Baltimore Orioles after serving a 10-day suspension for violating the league's new drug policy. The outfielder didn't take long to get on track, going 2-for-5 with a double and three runs scored. Joey Gathright was optioned to Triple-A Durham to open a spot on the 25-man roster.

Sanchez is expected to get the majority of the starts in center field for the Devil Rays, at least until Rocco Baldelli comes back, which likely won't be until mid-season. With the Tigers last season, he hit .322 with two home runs, 26 RBI and 19 stolen bases in 79 games.

4/14/2005

Ryan Franklin, cin

To accomodate Gil Meche, who is getting two extra days of rest between starts because of tendinitis near his throwing elbow, the Mariners have moved up Franklin's next scheduled start to Saturday in Chicago. Franklin came within one out of a complete game in his first 2005 start on Monday, when he and the Mariners defeated the Royals, 8-2.

Joel Pineiro has been moved up to take Friday's start, Franklin will work Saturday's, and Meche will pitch the series finale on Sunday.

4/13/2005

Alex Sanchez, cin

On Thursday, Sanchez returns from his 10-day suspension for violating the league's new drug policy. The Devil Rays face a difficult decision at that time. Rookie speedster Joey Gathright has gone 7-for-16 with three stolen bases over five games, and perhaps it's time to make him a regular.

Giving Gathright a starting role would make Sanchez a fourth outfielder. If Sanchez retains a starting job, Gathright would return to Triple-A Durham, so that he can play every day.

Matt Belisle, cin

Filling in for Ramon Ortiz, who is nursing a stiff groin, Belisle will get the starting nod for the Cincinnati Reds in Wednesday's game against the St. Louis Cardinals. The righthander has pitched in just two games so far this season, allowing two runs on three hits in 2.2 innings. He'll likely be on a pitch count, since he hasn't seen an extended appearance in quite some time.

Belisle is no stranger to the starting rotation, as every one of his 123 minor league outings came as a starter. In those contests, he went 36-46 with a 4.00 ERA.

4/12/2005

Joe Mays, cin

Coming back from Tommy John surgery in 2003, Mays on Tuesday will make his first major league start since August 29, 2003. The Twins' 29-year-old righthander didn't pitch at all in 2004. He returned to action last Friday, when he worked two innings in relief against the White Sox. At the Metrodome on Tuesday, Mays will square off against Detroit and starting pitcher Mike Maroth.

Over his career, Mays is 42-55 with a 4.69 ERA. He was a 17-game winner in 2001, going 17-13 with a career-best 3.16 ERA.

4/9/2005

Ryan Franklin, cin

Franklin will start Monday against the Kansas City Royals in place of the injured Bobby Madritsch. With Madritsch on the disabled list, it is expected Franklin will remain in the starting rotation for the time being.

4/7/2005

Ken Griffey Jr., cin

Showers prior to Thursday's game against the New York Mets resulted in a wet outfield, so the Cincinnati Reds decided to go the cautious route and hold Griffey out of the lineup, avoiding an aggravation of his hamstring injury. The veteran center fielder was replaced by Wily Mo Pena, and he should be back in action on Friday at Houston.

Injuries have limited Griffey to 206 (of a possible 486) games over the last three seasons combined, so it is understandable that the Reds don't want to take any chances early in the current campaign. Through two contests this year, he is 4-for-7 with a double, two walks and two RBI.

4/5/2005

Ryan Freel, cin

Freel was charged with drunken driving, careless driving and having an open container in a motor vehicle when he was pulled over by police in northern Kentucky Monday night, just hours after the Reds defeated the New York Mets in their 2005 season opener. The utilityman posted a $500 bond and was later released.

Freel's court date is scheduled for Wednesday. He is slated to serve as a backup at second base, third base and outfield this season, but if D'Angelo Jimenez struggles at second, Freel could land the everyday job. Freel batted .277 with three home runs, 28 RBI and 37 stolen bases in 143 games last season.

4/4/2005

Alex Sanchez, cin

Sanchez has been suspended for 10 days without pay for violating the league's new drug policy. Reportedly, the Devil Rays' outfielder tested positive for steroids, but he has adamantly denied ever using the substance. In his absence, Chris Singleton is expected to start in center field for Tampa Bay, with Joey Gathright serving as the primary backup.

Sanchez will begin serving the penalty on April 4. In 79 games with the Detroit Tigers last season, he batted .322 with two home runs, 26 RBI and 19 stolen bases.

Adam Dunn, cin

Although he struck out twice, Dunn got his 2005 campaign off on the right foot, going 2-for-4 with two home runs and five RBI in Monday's Opening Day victory over the New York Mets. The Reds' outfielder hit a three-run homer in the first inning before connecting for a game-tying two-run shot in the bottom of the ninth. He now has 10 career multihomer games in his major league career.

Dunn will fan quite often (195 times in 2004), but he does have some patience at the plate, as is evident by his .388 on-base percentage last season. In 161 games last year, he hit .266 with 46 home runs, 102 RBI and 108 walks.

4/3/2005

Rich Aurilia, cin

Aurilia has made the Reds' 40-man roster and will be the team's Opening Day starting shortstop. The 11-year veteran likely won't play every day, and should split time with Felipe Lopez.

The lively ballpark in Cincinnati may revitalize Aurilia's career, if he can find the at-bats, but still, there are better options out there.

Jung Keun Bong, cin

Bong was placed on the 60-day disabled list by the Reds on Sunday. Bong is suffering from a shoulder injury that has not gotten any better over time. He may miss the entire season.