Paul Gervase Recalled, Emmet Sheehan Optioned After Encouraging Starts

The Los Angeles Dodgers recalled Paul Gervase and optioned Emmet Sheehan to Triple-A Oklahoma City before their series opener against the Cincinnati Reds.

Gervase gives the Dodgers a fresh arm in the bullpen for their four-game series at Great American Ball Park. Though, his stay might be relatively brief as Kris Bubic is a candidate to get activated as soon as Wednesday.

This marks Gervase’s fifth time joining the Dodgers roster. He most recently had been up in late August. The right-hander has made four appearances for L.A. this season, yielding a 2.35 ERA over 7.2 innings.

Gervase has appeared in 10 Major League games in his career, posting a 3.38 ERA and 1.63 WHIP with 16 strikeouts in 16 innings.

During his time with the Comets this season, the 26-year-old has gone 3-1 with a 4.56 ERA and 1.46 WHIP over 38 games this year.

Gervase has one more option remaining before reaching the single-season limit of five.

Emmet Sheehan had impressive return

When Sheehan was recalled on Sept. 7, it was for a guaranteed spot start but with an opportunity for remaining in the rotation.

Sheehan allowed just one run and tied a career high with 10 strikeouts over 5.2 innings against the Reds. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Sheehan would receive another opportunity, and he proceeded to pitch six scoreless innings on Sunday.

Unfortunately for Sheehan, he took a no-decision as the Miami Marlins came back for a walk-off win.

The two outings nevertheless were encouraging progress for the 26-year-old. He dealt with fluctuating fastball velocity and inconsistent performances throughout much of the season, which prompted the Dodgers to send Sheehan down to Triple-A in August.

He responded by immediately earning Pacific Coast League Pitcher of the Week honors and also was named Pitcher of the Month.

What’s next for Sheehan is unclear. Unless the Dodgers have a pitching injury, he isn’t eligible to get recalled before the regular season concludes.

It’s still possible Sheehan will be considered for a postseason role, but that may hinge on how the rest of the pitching staff takes shape and decisions the Dodgers make with moving starters into the bullpen.