Roster moves

SAN DIEGO - After tonight's loss, the Reds optioned pitcher Bobby Livingston and infielder Jeff Keppinger to Triple-A Louisville. They will recall veteran catcher Chad Moeller and relief pitcher Marcus McBeth before today’s game.

The Reds acquired McBeth as one of the players to be named later in the April 27 trade that sent injured outfielder Chris Denorfia to the Athletics. In 16 appearances with the Bats, the 26-year-old, who will be making his major league debut when he pitches for the Reds, went 1-0 with a 1.50 ERA and nine saves in 10 chances.

“It was unanimous by the staff there (in Louisville) that he was a guy that could help us,” Reds general manager Wayne Krivsky said.

By bringing in Moeller, who was on the opening day roster before the team designated him for assignment April 18, the Reds will again be carrying three catchers. Moeller batted .270 with three home runs and nine RBI in 11 games with the Bats.

“We’re going to get some bullpen help with McBeth, give him a chance to come in here and see what he can do,” Reds manager Jerry Narron said. “The catching situation, Chad Moeller is going to get a chance to catch some for us. It will put (Javier Valentin) back in a role where we can use him anytime during the game to pinch hit. The catching part of it; Moeller and David Ross will do the bulk of it.”

The Reds will skip the fifth starter's regular turn Saturday - Kyle Lohse will start Friday followed by Matt Belisle on Saturday and Aaron Harang on Sunday. The Reds next need the fifth starter against the Nationals on May 22. Eric Milton, by the way, isn't eligible to come off the 15-day DL until May 24.