The Padres optioned Nick Ramirez after last night’s game, per Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune (via Twitter). Ramirez tossed a pair of scoreless innings early in the Padres’ 10-3 11-inning win on Friday night. He has made seven appearances on the season allowing six earned run across 10 2/3 innings.
Opting to bring in a fresh arm, Aaron Northcraft has been recalled in Ramirez’s place. The 31-year-old Northcraft made his Major League debut this season, tossing six innings across four outings, allowing just a pair of earned runs. The Padres used seven pitchers to get through yesterday’s game, so Northcraft should be put to use pretty quickly for the Friars.
Pitching depth figures to remain an issue throughout the season, even for a team with as many weapons as San Diego. MLB.com’s AJ Cassavell expects the Padres to explore the trade market for a starter and a lefty solution in the pen before the trade deadline. Until that point (and indeed, even after), the Padres are likely to continue to be aggressive in managing their pitching staff with moves like the one today.
Not many thought the Padres would need a backend starter and bullpen depth at the deadline.
You never can have, too much pitching.
As a dodger fan, I hope Friedman gets a bullpen piece before Preller takes the best ones.
Injuries, especially pitcher injuries, are through the roof already this year. Every team is MLB is also worried about having a full season after a partial season and the toll it will take on arms. Any healthy arms will be worth their weight in gold at the trade deadline.
The Pads are rotating several guys, optioning them then bringing them back in a few days, just to optimize their use. Hope Snell can deliver 6 innings tomorrow, win or lose.