The Los Angeles Dodgers called up switch-pitcher Pat Venditte and optioned right-hander Brock Stewart back to Triple-A Oklahoma City ahead of Saturday’s game against the Cincinnati Reds.
To make room for Venditte on the 40-man roster, Corey Seager was transferred to the 60-day disabled list. He was previously ruled out for the remainder of the season after undergoing Tommy John surgery.
The Dodgers signed Venditte to a Minor League contract this past offseason, and he has been impressive both during Spring Training and with Oklahoma City.
In 15 appearances during the regular season, Venditte posted a 1.53 ERA and 0.91 WHIP while striking out 19 compared to six walks in 17.2 innings. He also pitched to a 1.59 ERA in 11.1 innings during Cactus League play this past spring.
Venditte gives Dodgers manager Dave Roberts a huge luxury in that his ability to pitch with both hands allows him to face both right-handed and left-handed hitters. The 32-year-old has appeared in 41 career Major League games with the Oakland Athletics, Toronto Blue Jays and Seattle Mariners.
In 50.2 innings, he has yielded a 4.97 ERA, 5.01 FIP and 1.36 WHIP with 42 strikeouts and 23 walks.
Stewart has been going back and forth between Oklahoma City and the big league club for much of the season. He only made one appearance in his most recent stint with the Dodgers, pitching three innings of one-run ball, allowing one hit and two walks while striking out two in Saturday night’s loss to the Reds.
The way the Dodgers have been using their bullpen so far this season, it likely won’t be long before Stewart is back on the active roster.
