Rob Wooten optioned to Nashville, Alfredo Figaro recalled

The Brewers made a roster move this afternoon, optioning Rob Wooten down to Triple-A Nashville. In his week with the team, he pitched in four games, posting an 8.31 ERA and 4.46 FIP in 4 1/3 innings.  He pitched two perfect innings yesterday with two strikeouts.  As a corresponding move, the Brewers recalled Alfredo Figaro from Nashville.

Considering the Brewers had to call almost all of their bullpen into action yesterday (only Wei-Chung Wang did not pitch), this move is probably more about having a fresh arm in the bullpen over performance.  Rob Wooten had pitched in two straight games and three of the last four, and had pitched 3 1/3 innings over the last two games.  While he did struggle in two of his four appearances, his innings yesterday provided some optimism.  However, here is the status in the bullpen entering today:

- Francisco Rodriguez pitched three straight days.
- Jim Henderson pitched three straight days.
- Zach Duke pitched three of the last four days and pitched two innings yesterday.
- Will Smith pitched yesterday and Friday.
- Tyler Thornburg pitched yesterday and Friday.
- Wei-Chung Wang last pitched Thursday (and probably won't pitch in anything but emergency/blowout situations).

It was critical for the Brewers to get someone to support the bullpen today.  If Wily Peralta has any kind of a bad start today, the bullpen will be in trouble.  That's where Alfredo Figaro will help them.  Figaro comes up with a fresh arm, having last pitched on Thursday.  In seven relief appearances covering nine innings in Nashville, he posted a 5.00 ERA with eight strikeouts and no walks.  Plus, he can cover multiple innings if needed, which can help if that situation comes up.

This could end up being a short move if Brandon Kintzler is ready to return when he is eligible to come off the DL on Thursday. However, we have not heard an update on his status yet.