CINCINNATI -- The Reds reshuffled their struggling bullpen Friday before the second game of a series against the Cubs, designating right-hander Tim Melville for assignment and calling up right-hander J.C. Ramirez.
Melville gave up four runs and two homers in two innings of a 16-0 loss to Chicago on Thursday night. Cincinnati's bullpen had a 6.75 ERA that was worst in the National League. Reds relievers had thrown the most innings in the NL (58 2/3) and allowed the most homers (15) and walks (36).
Ramirez, 27, was 1-3 with a 6.42 ERA in 38 games with Philadelphia, Arizona and Seattle.
Right-hander Keyvius Sampson, who was designated for assignment Monday, was sent outright to Triple-A Louisville.