Cleveland Indians News: Tyler Holt, Michael Roth Called Up

Roster moves follow in wake of Murphy trade

With yesterday’s trade of David Murphy from the Cleveland Indians to the Los Angeles Angels, we knew a roster move was coming. As many probably expected, the Indians recalled Tyler Holt to replace Murphy on the roster. Out with the old, in with the new I suppose is the best way to look at it–but Murphy will be missed.

Holt makes his return after a very brief stop earlier this season in which he went hitless in three at-bats. Last season Holt batted .268 in 36 games. He was batting .286 this season at Columbus. His addition now gives the Indians four rookies called up this season, with three starting on a regular basis.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Tribe called up left-handed pitcher Michael Roth. His return to the Majors was in part due to the move of Nick Hagadone to the 60-day DL as he underwent surgery this week to repair his fractured elbow. That freed up a spot on the 40-man roster, allowing the call up of Roth while they optioned Jesus Aguilar to Columbus. Aguliar appeared in just three games, collecting two hits in nine at-bats.

Roth–an All-American his junior year–was originally drafted by the Indians in the 31st round of the 2011 MLB draft, but returned to the University of South Carolina for his senior season. He was then selected by the Los Angeles Angels in the ninth round of the 2012 draft.

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In 22 appearances for the Angels over the past two season, Roth posted a 2-1 record with a 7.79 ERA in 32 1/3 innings. He cleared waivers last November, choosing to become a free agent. He signed with the team that drafted him originally in December.

In 19 starts at Columbus, he’s gone 7-6 with a 4.16 ERA, striking out 70 and walking 37 in 114 2/3 innings. He joins Mark Rzepczynski as the clubs only left-handed relievers. Rzepczynski has seen a heavy workload as of late, and another southpaw in the pen will be very helpful to Terry Francona.

This could also serve as an audition for Roth, for while Cody Anderson holds the No. 5 spot in the rotation now–he’s struggled in his last two starts. Couple that with the possibility of a trade for one of the other Indians starters and a need to replace one could arise soon.

Next: Where do the Indians go from here?