The Los Angeles Dodgers recalled Zach Reks and optioned Edwin Uceta to Triple-A Oklahoma City prior to the series opener against the San Diego Padres.
Uceta returns to the Minors one day after joining the Dodgers when they optioned Mitch White to OKC. Uceta pitched in the series finale against the Arizona Diamondbacks, entering in the seventh inning with what appeared to be a prime opportunity to convert a save.
However, he ran into trouble in the eighth and wound up being charged with five runs on three hits and two walks over 1.2 innings. Uceta, who made his MLB debut this season, is 0-2 with a 6.28 ERA in eight games (one start) for L.A.
The right-hander has also appeared in three games (two starts) with Oklahoma City this season, going 0-2 with a 5.79 ERA.
Reks, who will wear No. 84 like he did during spring Training, is up with the Dodgers for the first time in his career. He was selected out the University of Kentucky in the 10th round of the 2017 MLB Draft.
Reks has hit .305/.391/.482 with 55 doubles, 40 home runs and 164 RBI in 288 games over four Minor League seasons. He of course has spent five years in the Dodgers’ farm system, but missed a fifth season of playing last year due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
The Dodgers add the left-handed hitting outfielder in the midst of what’s been a strong showing with Oklahoma City. Reks has reached base safely in 30 of 31 starts this season, and ranks in the top four of the Triple-A West in doubles (14), runs scored (32) and on-base percentage (.445).
Dodgers expect to add Bellinger, Muncy
Reks’ time in the Majors may be short-lived as the Dodgers anticipate reinstating Cody Bellinger and Max Muncy off the 10-day injured list at some point during the Padres series. Both players are eligible to be activated on Tuesday.
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