Diamondbacks Recall Brandon Hughes, Option Slade Cecconi to Triple-A Reno

The Diamondbacks will be using an opener ahead of previously scheduled starter Ryne Nelson, with Hughes being a possible candidate to start. Fellow left-hander Joe Mantiply is likely unavailable for the series finale after pitching in three of the past four days, so now manager Torey Lovullo has more left-handed relief options to turn to during the game. However, that comes at the cost of losing one of their starting pitchers.

Cecconi has had a bit of a Jekyll and Hyde season filling in for the starting rotation. In three of his six appearances, he’s allowed two runs or fewer. In the other three games, he’s allowed six runs in each. In total, he has a 1-4 record and a 6.12 ERA. With Cecconi on an optional assignment, he is not eligible to be recalled until June 6 unless it’s to replace an injured player.

The Diamondbacks will have to make a move with their starting rotation while Cecconi is in Reno, as his spot in the rotation is set to come up against on Sunday against the Marlins. Left-hander Blake Walston would be the obvious choice, as he pitched on Tuesday for Reno and is the probable starter for Sunday. However, the team could maneuver the rotation to fit Tommy Henry or Cristian Mena if necessary.