Jack Taschner's Contract Purchased By Dodgers; A.J. Ellis Optioned

Left-handed reliever Jack Taschner has had his contract purchased by the Dodgers, per Dylan Hernandez of the Los Angeles Times. A.J. Ellis was optioned to Triple A Albuquerque to make room for Taschner.

Taschner was signed to a minor league deal on June 28, and pitched 10 games in Albuquerque, allowing four runs, all solo home runs, while walking nobody and striking out four.

As of right now, the Dodgers are carrying 13 pitchers, including three left-handers in the bullpen. Of course, one of those southpaws is George Sherrill, who has already cleared waivers and is as likely a candidate as anyone to get released. Until Reed Johnson returns from the disabled list, the Dodgers have no right-handed hitting outfielder on the bench to platoon with Xavier Paul in left field.