Ramirez recalled by Mariners, earns victory

SEATTLE -- Right-hander Erasmo Ramirez, who was optioned to Class A Everett last week to make one start over the All-Star break, was recalled in time to start Tuesday's game against the Indians.

Ramirez picked up his first Major League win since June 25, 2012, pitching 5 2/3 innings while allowing three runs on eight hits in his 10th start for Seattle and his second this season. With his family watching from the stands, the Nicaraguan struck out four Indians, two in each of his first two innings. The right-hander has allowed three runs or fewer in six of his last eight big league starts.

"I'm just happy," Ramirez said. "It was a close game. I was happy to have my family see me pitch in the big leagues before they go back to Nicaragua."

The 23-year old, who has struggled with efficiency, needed 101 pitches before being relieved early in the sixth frame. In his prior start for Seattle, Ramirez lasted just 4 2/3 innings, also throwing 101 pitches.

Ramirez missed the first three months of the season with an elbow issue, but he made his season debut on July 11 against the Red Sox and took a no-decision after giving up seven runs in 4 1/3 innings.

Rather than go 12 days before his next start due to the break, Ramirez was sent down to Everett and allowed just one run while striking out 10 in 5 1/3 innings against Vancouver last Wednesday.

Ramirez was 1-3 with a 3.36 ERA in 16 appearances -- including eight starts -- last year as a rookie.

To make room on the 25-man roster, left-handed reliever Bobby LaFromboise was optioned to Triple-A Tacoma. LaFromboise, 27, was to join the Rainiers in time for their game on Tuesday against Tucson.

LaFromboise made one appearance with Seattle after being recalled from Tacoma on July 12, allowing three hits and four runs in Sunday's 12-5 win in Houston. He appeared in three games for the Mariners earlier this season as well.