PHOENIX -- When a team is struggling, changes might need to be made. That's the explanation D-backs manager Chip Hale gave on Friday for his club's flurry of roster moves in an attempt to fix the bullpen woes.
The D-backs optioned relievers Evan Marshall and Andrew Chafin to Triple-A Reno, recalled relievers Dominic Leone and Silvino Bracho from the same affiliate, and activated reliever Josh Collmenter from the 15-day DL.
"We're seven games under .500, and this is what happens," Hale said. "We explained this to the ballclub yesterday. No one likes a lot of change, but that's what happens in professional sports when you're not performing to where we're supposed to be."
Chafin excelled in the D-backs bullpen last season, when he posted a 2.76 ERA in 66 games, but he hasn't had the same success this year. The left-hander is 0-1 with a 9.00 ERA in 23 appearances. His demotion leaves inexperienced Zac Curtis as the only lefty in the bullpen.
Marshall is 0-1 with a 6.92 ERA in 12 appearances this season. Last year, the right-hander suffered a scary injury when he took a line drive to the face while pitching for Reno.
The D-backs entered Friday ranking 25th in the Majors in reliever ERA, and they've shuffled relievers to and from the Minors to make up for starters not working deep. This time, it's Leone and Bracho coming to the Majors, where both have already pitched this season.
Leone has a 10.13 ERA in two appearances. Bracho has a 16.20 ERA in two appearances.
"It's about performance, and they have to do better," Hale said of the bullpen. "The other guys coming in, we're excited to have them. We just need that middle of the game to calm down."
Collmenter has been on the DL all season with a right shoulder injury. He has been both a starter and reliever in five seasons in the Majors, all with Arizona, but there are no plans for him to rejoin the rotation, even with starters Shelby Miller and Rubby De La Rosagoing to the DL.
Extra bases
• The D-backs recalled outfielder Peter O'Brien from Reno. However, he could be a candidate to return to the Minors to make room for starter Archie Bradley on Sunday.
• Injured outfielder David Peralta (right wrist) said he expects to play extended spring training games starting Wednesday.