CINCINNATI -- Dodgers reliever Thomas Stripling, who allowed home runs in back-to-back outings, was optioned on Friday to Triple-A Oklahoma City and replaced in the bullpen by Josh Ravin, who was recalled.
Even if Stripling hadn't allowed four runs in 1 2/3 innings against the Indians, the bullpen would have needed a long reliever at the ready this weekend with Rich Hill throwing only four innings on Thursday and Kenta Maeda coming out of the bullpen for a spot start on Sunday.
"Number one, it's to give us coverage and number two, it's to get Ross right," said manager Dave Roberts. "He's a part of what we're doing right now and we've got to get him right moving forward. Just mentally to get away, to reset will be beneficial for him."
Stripling has allowed home runs in his past two outings, including a three-run shot to pinch-hitter Lonnie Chisenhall in Cleveland on Thursday. Through June 4, Stripling had a 2.51 ERA with one home run allowed in 32 1/3 innings. In two games since, he's allowed two homers in 3 2/3 innings and his ERA is up to 4.00.
Ravin, who began the season on the disabled list with a strained right groin, had a 7.94 ERA at OKC since returning.
"Obviously, Josh has a big arm and with his fastball he's been dominating right-handed hitters," said Roberts. "From our reports, it's just getting that slider to what it is. If he's getting both over, he can get righties and lefties out. I don't know in what situation, but I expect to use him this weekend."
Ravin's stay could be short. Fabio Castillo was scratched from a Friday night start for OKC. He can't be recalled until Sunday. Sergio Romo also will be eligible to come off the disabled list on Sunday.