Nationals reportedly option Tres Barrera to Triple-A Rochester

The Washington Nationals have optioned catcher Tres Barrera to Triple-A Rochester, according to the MLB transaction wire, per Matt Weyrich of NBC Sports. The Nationals have not announced the move nor who will be replacing Barrera on the active roster.

Barrera’s demotion make signal that at least one veteran catcher — Yan Gomes or Alex Avila — is ready to return from the injured list. Gomes has been on the IL since July 10 with an oblique strain. Avila landed on the IL a week earlier on July 3 with bilateral calf strains.

Barrera was called up on July 3 to replace Avila on the roster. He initially was to serve as the backup catcher. But Gomes went down a week later.

Meanwhile, Tres Barrera flashed in 15 games he appeared. He hit .295/.354/.455 with a home run and four RBIs in 48 plate appearances.

Until we get official word or an explanation, sending Barrera to Rochester may be puzzling for some.