With Machi down to Triple-A, Moscoso gets new role

SAN FRANCISCO -- Optioning right-hander Jean Machi to Triple-A Fresno did more than clear roster room for Friday's starter, Ryan Vogelsong, to be activated from the Giants' disabled list.

The move had a direct effect on right-hander Guillermo Moscoso, who will inherit Machi's role as a middle-inning short reliever. Moscoso had been regarded as a "long" reliever capable of consuming multiple innings if a starter were to leave the game early. But with Barry Zito now inhabiting San Francisco's bullpen, the club had no need for two long relievers.

Manager Bruce Bochy explained that with Moscoso sharing short-relief duties, fellow right-handers Sandy Rosario and Santiago Casilla won't have to appear too early and can continue to work in later innings, as the Giants prefer.

Oddly, Machi owned a 5.19 ERA in 21 appearances at pitcher-friendly AT&T Park. He also had allowed opponents to hit .342 off him at home. Overall, Machi was 2-1 with a 3.34 ERA.