With Chapman back, Reds option Negron

PITTSBURGH -- With closer Aroldis Chapman back from paternity leave before Thursday's series finale vs. the Pirates, the Reds cleared a roster spot by optioning utility player Kristopher Negron to Triple-A Louisville.

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Negron, who had a strong Spring Training, was batting .141 with no home runs and two RBIs in 42 games during the regular season. He made 20 starts -- at least one at every position except pitcher and catcher.

But playing time had been particularly sparse lately for Negron, who last started on June 16 when he appeared at shortstop vs. Detroit.

The moves returns Cincinnati to having a four-man bench and 13 pitchers on the roster.

Chapman missed two games while away and one save opportunity. J.J. Hoover notched the save with a perfect ninth during Wednesday's 5-2 victory.