A 10-game losing streak can often be more than enough to facilitate a roster shakeup for any organization, and the Indians did just that on Tuesday by recalling right-handed pitcher Frank Herrmann from Triple-A to take the place of veteran infielder Jose Lopez, who was promptly designated for assignment according to MLB.com's Jordan Bastian.
Indians recall RHP Frank "Harvard Heat" Herrmann from AAA Columbus to give weary bullpen some help. INF Jose Lopez DFA'd.
— Jordan Bastian (@MLBastian) August 7, 2012
Herrmann made 38 appearances with Columbus this year, posting a 4.28 earned-run average with seven saves. Although he seen action in 80 big league games during his career, Herrman's career ERA is nearly a full run higher at the major league level, and he will need to use his powerful fastball much more efficiently this time around if he plans to stick in the majors.
Lopez, who became an everyday starter with the Indians back in May, hit four home runs and knocked in 28 RBI in 66 games this season, but struggled to a woeful .272 on-base percentage. Seemingly eons away from being the same player who belted 26 bombs and 96 RBI back with Seattle in 2009, Lopez, still just 28 years old, is once again at a crossroads in his career.
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