Lyles, Brewers hoping for a fruitful reunion
Jordan Lyles is heading back to the Brewers, who are desperate for starting pitching as they try to repeat as National League Central champions.
The Brewers acquired the righthander from the Pirates on Monday for pitching prospect Cody Ponce, giving them a familiar name in their injury-depleted rotation.
“I’m definitely looking forward to a change,” Lyles said during a conference call.”
Lyles worked out of the bullpen for the Brewers last fall, going 1-0 with a 3.31 ERA in 11 appearances. He translated his success in Milwaukee into a one-year contract with the Pirates and earned a spot in the starting rotation out of spring training. But after he won five of his first six decisions, he fell into a deep slump and had a 9.58 ERA in eight starts since the end of May, leaving him 5-7 overall with a 5.36 ERA.
Rosscup’s latest team: Cardinals
The Dodgers traded left-hander Zac Rosscup (2-0, 5.00 ERA) to the Cardinals for cash, making it four different teams that Rosscup has been part of this season. He finished last season with the Dodgers but was designated for assignment in November. He signed with the Mariners, but was designated for assignment May 17. The Blue Jays claimed him off waivers but designated him for assignment May 28 after two appearances. He re-signed with the Dodgers last month and made seven appearances, but was designated for assignment two weeks ago. He likely will join the Cardinals’ Class AAA affiliate in Memphis.
Meanwhile, the Cardinals optioned outfielder Harrison Bader to Memphis.
Phillies trade for veteran Vargas
The Phillies bolstered their beleaguered rotation, acquiring 36-year-old left-hander Jason Vargas from the Mets for Class AA catcher Austin Bossart. Vargas is 6-5 with a 4.01 ERA, winning his last three starts. He became expendable when the Mets acquired right-hander Marcus Stroman from Toronto on Sunday night.
Scherzer back on the shelf
The Nationals, 6-3 winners over the NL East-leading Braves, announced that ace right-hander Max Scherzer is back on the 10-day injured list with a minor rhomboid strain. The injury is in the same area as the inflammation under his right shoulder that forced him to the IL for 19 days earlier this month.
Marisnick’s suspension stands
MLB upheld Astros outfielder Jake Marisnick’s two-game suspension for a violent home-plate collision with Angels catcher Jonathan Lucroy on July 7. Lucroy suffered a concussion and a broken nose.
Reds relentless in second inning
Jose Iglesias’ grand slam off Montana DuRapau completed the host Reds’ 10-run second inning in an 11-6 win over the Pirates, who lost their ninth straight. The Reds piled up six hits and three walks in the second while sending 13 batters to the plate. Every Reds player scored in the inning.