Cardinals recall Marte, option Martinez

The Cardinals recalled right-hander Victor Marte from Triple-A Memphis on Monday and optioned right-hander Carlos Martinez to Memphis. Marte is expected to be available for the Cardinals' series opener in Kansas City on Monday afternoon.

Marte, 32, was 1-0 with a 2.78 ERA in 20 games for the Redbirds this season, striking out 23 batters in 22 1/3 innings. He led the team with 10 saves, which was good for fourth in the Pacific Coast League.

Marte appeared in 48 games for the Cardinals last year, going 3-2 with a 4.91 ERA.

Martinez made seven relief appearances for St. Louis following his May 3 callup, striking out nine in eight innings.