CINCINNATI (AP) — The Reds optioned utility player Todd Frazier to Triple-A Louisville on Wednesday, setting their roster at the 25-player limit for opening day.
Cincinnati needed to open a spot for right-handed reliever Alfredo Simon, who was claimed off waivers from Baltimore a day earlier. Simon goes into a bullpen depleted by injuries.
The Reds made several anticipated moves, placing closer Ryan Madson on the 60-day disabled list with a torn elbow ligament and right-hander Nick Masset on the 15-day disabled list with an inflamed pitching shoulder.
They also put right-hander Jordan Smith on the 15-day DL and selected the minor league contract of utility player Willie Harris, who agreed to a deal in January and was invited to training camp.
The Reds open at home on Thursday against the Miami Marlins.