MLB Player News

Long threw three scoreless innings against the Dodgers on Saturday, allowing three hits while striking out one batter. He didn't factor in the decision.

Long was making a spot start in place of Alex Cobb (neck), and he was able to give San Francisco a season-high 48 pitches. The left-hander didn't allow any extra-base hits, limiting Los Angeles to a single in each of his three innings. It's unclear if Long will get another chance to start or if he will return to the bullpen. Of his 12 major-league appearances this season, eight have been as a reliever.

Rainey struck out two and gave up a two-run home run in the ninth inning of Saturday's 8-6 win over the Brewers.

Called upon to protect a four-run lead in the ninth, Rainey issued a one-out walk to Andrew McCutchen before Luis Urias took him deep to chop that lead in half, but the Nationals' closer was able to escape by striking out Rowdy Tellez. Rainey has been scored upon in three straight appearances -- the second such stretch for him this season -- and his 3.38 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and 22:7 K:BB through 18.2 innings mark him as one of the less reliable closers in the league.

Nelson will serve as the Diamondbacks' opening pitcher Sunday against the Phillies, Nick Piecoro of The Arizona Republic reports.

By tapping the left-handed Nelson, Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo hopes to neutralize sluggers Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper, lefty hitters at the top of the Phillies' order. Nelson is not expected to go much more than an inning. Luke Weaver, who Arizona added to its taxi squad Saturday, is expected to pitch multiple innings following Nelson. The need for a fill-in starter was created when Humberto Castellanos (elbow) was added to the 15-day injured list.

Martinez did not factor in the decision against Colorado in Game 1 of a doubleheader Saturday, but he struck out nine over 5.2 innings while allowing just one run on five hits and three walks.

Martinez was originally scheduled to start Sunday's contest, but he was moved up a day due to Mike Clevinger landing on the COVID-19 injured list. The late change didn't seem to bother Martinez at all, as he fell one out shy of a quality start and struck out a season-high nine batters. The right-hander didn't allow a run until the sixth inning, when Brendan Rodgers doubled home Charlie Blackmon to register the Rockies' only run of the game. Martinez hasn't earned any wins over his past five starts despite posting a 2.92 ERA, 1.34 WHIP and 26:10 K:BB across 24.2 innings over that span.

Reed was recalled by the Mets on Saturday, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.

Reed made a pair of relief appearances for the Mets back in May, throwing three scoreless innings. He's up to replace Colin Holderman, who landed on the injured list with a right shoulder impingement.

Holderman was placed on the 15-day injured list Saturday with a right shoulder impingement, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.

The move was backdated to Wednesday, leaving Holderman eligible to return June 24, though it's unclear if he'll have a shot at a minimum-length stay. Jake Reed was recalled to take his place in the bullpen.

Junis has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 hamstring strain, Evan Webeck of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

Manager Gabe Kapler stated Saturday that it's not a mild strain for Junis, so he could miss well over the minimum 15 days. Sean Hjelle could be an option to make a spot start next week and Alex Cobb (neck) and Anthony DeSclafani (ankle) figure to beat Junis back to the rotation.

Thompson (biceps) threw live batting practice Saturday, Jessica Camerato of MLB.com reports.

He had been throwing bullpen sessions and continues advancing in his throwing progression. Thompson could soon go on a rehab assignment.

Rucker was recalled from Triple-A Iowa on Saturday, Sahadev Sharma of The Athletic reports.

He has a 5.40 ERA and 1.44 WHIP while working as a multi-inning reliever in the majors this season. Rucker should work in low-leverage spots.

Bruihl was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City on Saturday, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports.

Bruihl is coming off his worst outing of the season in which he gave up three earned runs in an inning against the Giants on Friday. He could be back up with the Dodgers later this summer, though he'll likely be limited to serving as bullpen depth.