News
Twins recall Keppel from Triple-A
Right-handed reliever Ayala designated for assignment
Luis Ayala posted a 4.18 ERA in 28 appearances for the Twins this season. (Paul Battaglia/AP)
By Tyler Mason / MLB.com
06/22/09 7:23 PM ET
MINNEAPOLS -- In an attempt to bolster a struggling bullpen, the Minnesota Twins recalled relief pitcher Bobby Keppel from Triple-A Rochester on Monday. |
"Bobby Keppel's been pitching very well in Triple-A," Twins general manager Bill Smith said. "We felt he was ready to come up and help this club."
The right-handed Keppel was 3-3 with a 2.43 ERA in 23 appearances this season with the Red Wings. Originally used as a reliever, Keppel recently found his way into Rochester's starting rotation and made three starts for the club as a way to throw more innings. "He pitched out of the bullpen," Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said over the weekend. "He can do that. He did a really good job at that. He wanted to get into the rotation and we had a need, too." In 55 2/3 innings of work, Keppel struck out 28 batters while allowing 51 hits. Keppel will join the Twins in time for Tuesday's series opener against the Brewers in Milwaukee. To make room for Keppel on the 25-man roster, Minnesota designated relief pitcher Luis Ayala for assignment. The right-handed Ayala allowed one run in each of his past two appearances, including a solo home run to Houston's Lance Berkman in the Twins' 6-5 loss Saturday. On the season, Ayala was 1-2 with a 4.18 ERA in 28 appearances. "They're always tough decisions," Smith said. "In this case, we just felt that Keppel coming up here was the right move. Unfortunately, it cost Luis Ayala a spot on the roster."Tyler Mason is an associate reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
