The Los Angeles Dodgers will now have two left-handed pitchers available in their bullpen, as Scott Elbert was activated from the disabled list on Sunday before their game with the Atlanta Braves. To make room, the Dodgers optioned utility man Elian Herrera to Triple A Albuquerque.
Elbert was placed on the disabled list on July 27 with left elbow inflammation. He last pitched for the Dodgers on July 25, and has missed the last 22 games. He gives the Dodgers two lefties now in the bullpen along with Randy Choate, who was acquired from Miami on July 25.
This move gives the Dodgers 13 pitchers, which means a four-man bench. Which is even more astounding since one of those bench players is Juan Uribe, who has one start in the last four weeks.
In three minor league rehab games with Double A Chattanooga, Elbert struck out all six batters he faced, pitching Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday for the Lookouts.
Herrera was recaled on Monday when Jerry Hairston Jr. went on the disabled list. In two games this week, Herrera went 1-for-3, and on the year is hitting .244/.326/.331 in 53 games.
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