Reds deal lefty Lamb to Rays for cash

CINCINNATI -- The Reds traded left-handed starting pitcher John Lamb to the Rays on Wednesday for cash considerations, MLB.com learned. It became official on Thursday with the announcement from both clubs.
Lamb, 26, was designated for assignment by Cincinnati on Oct. 27, three days after he underwent back surgery for the second time in as many years. He was out of Minor League options and not expected to be ready until well into the 2017 season.
The Reds acquired Lamb, along with lefty pitchers Brandon Finnegan and Cody Reed, from the Royals for ace Johnny Cueto on July 26, 2015.
Lamb's value diminished as he went 2-12 with a 6.17 ERA in 24 big league starts over parts of the past two seasons. He also dealt with health issues that included an operation on Dec. 7, 2015, to repair a disc in his lower back, causing him to miss the start of this season before making his '16 debut on May 3.
Once he did return, Lamb often struggled, going 1-7 with a 6.43 ERA in 14 starts before being optioned to Triple-A Louisville on July 17. He made three more starts for Louisville before going on their disabled list on Aug. 4 with a left elbow injury and missing the rest of the season.