When Alex Wood returns, it's time for DeSclafani to transition into a long reliever out of the bullpen at this point. Any future injuries to Wood which is always a concern, recall Lucas Sims.
Wish the Reds kept Peralta in AAA to keep Sims on the MLB roster. Could use a fresh arm if the Reds are going to make it past the All-Star break with the overworked bullpen. Would still get valuable experience against Major League hitting. However, I can understand how it is important for him to get consistent starts if he is to be a future piece of the Starting Rotation.
They'd rather ride with rejects like Peralta & Zach Duke than toy with the idea of converting a starter in the long relief role when starters flame out early. An innings eater out of the bullpen to keep everyone fresh would be quite beneficial. A lot like how we see Starting Pitchers used out of the bullpen in the playoffs.Thought that was going to be Robert Stephenson's role on this team but he is a reliever because he is out of minor league options and the Reds 'forgot' these last couple seasons about his 2017 2nd half with a sub 3.00 ERA. Lorenzen sort of fits that mold but he can be used in so many roles on this team outside of pitching that makes him so vital to the Reds. He'll also get his pitch count elevated fast working himself into trouble. Good for about 2 innings max when the game is out of hand.
DeSclafani makes more sense in the bullpen while Sims starting. He is just as injury prone as Alex Wood. JMO but it seems the injuries to Anthony have mounted up and you're lucky to get 5 innings out of him. Struggling to get through or even make it to the 3rd time around the lineup.
