Reds Option Struggling Leadoff Hitter Friedl to Triple-A

The Cincinnati Reds optioned outfielder TJ Friedl and right-handed pitcher Julian Aguiar to Triple-A Louisville on Saturday, while adding waiver claim Oswaldo Cabrera and recalling reliever Zach McCambley. Friedl, who was sent to the minors for the second time this season, has struggled badly after opening the year as Cincinnati’s leadoff hitter, batting .172 with a .255 on-base percentage and a .510 OPS over 91 games. His recent playing time had declined, and the demotion could put his future with the Reds in doubt. Cabrera, claimed from the New York Yankees, hit .288 with 19 homers and 12 steals in 122 Triple-A games this season. Aguiar’s move was primarily a corresponding roster adjustment after he provided three innings in relief, while McCambley returns to Cincinnati after a month in Louisville.