D-backs Option Hoffmann, Call Up Abner for Bullpen Shakeup

0:00It's April 29th. This is MLB News Today, AI-powered stories shaping the season. The Arizona Diamondbacks just made a big bullpen switch. They're optioning right-hander Andrew Hoffman to triple A Reno after his rough night against the Milwaukee Brewers. In his place, they're calling up Lefty Phillip Abner for some fresh relief. Hoffman, a 26-year-old, started strong with a 2.38 ERA in his first seven outings. But Tuesday, he gave up eight runs and just one-third of an inning, throwing 38 pitches for that single out. Now his season ERA sits at 7.71, with eight walks in 11 and two-thirds innings. Manager Tori LeVulo hinted at this move after the game, saying the bullpen needed length despite some off days. Fans and analysts see it as a quick reset for a unit that's been overworked early on. Abner, 23, steps up as the team's first left-handed reliever this season. This year, he debuted with two runs, allowed in three and two-thirds innings.

1:00This year in triple A, he's posted a 4.82 ERA over nine and two-thirds innings, with seven strikeouts and three walks. It's a surprise pick over Reno's hot, righty Kate Stroud, who boasts a 0.93 ERA. Still, adding that Lefty Presence could balance things out as the D-backs push forward in a tight race.