CINCINNATI – Cincinnati Reds left-hander Manny Parra experienced soreness during his second inning of work in Sunday’s 11-inning loss to Cleveland and later was diagnosed with a mild elbow strain.
The strain could have improved with rest, but with a doubleheader scheduled for Wednesday against the Chicago Cubs, the Reds couldn’t afford to be minus an arm.
So, the 32-year old Parra is headed for the disabled list for the second time this season.
“He’ll need some time off for strengthening,” said manager Bryan Price. “The DL made more sense, especially with the doubleheader this week. He’ll get treatment. He won’t throw for a while.”
Parra was 1-1 with a 4.00 ERA in 24 appearances this season with 13 strikeouts and six walks in 18 innings. He pitched 1 2/3 innings on Sunday, allowing two hits and a walk.
Right-hander Dylan Axelrod was recalled from Triple-A Louisville on Monday to fill Parra’s spot. Axelrod pitched well in five appearances including two starts for the Reds last year, going 2-1 with a 2.95 ERA.
Axelrod made his first 17 appearances in Triple-A as a starter but recently began transitioning to a relief role.
He didn’t pitch in the Reds’ 5-4 victory over the Cubs on Monday night, but Price said he’ll get plenty of work.
“We’re comfortable with Dylan,” said Price. “He threw well for us last year. He’s kind of transitioned recently in the bullpen in Triple-A. That experience and he has some history in the bullpen will help him get acclimated.”
