The Reds have released right-hander Kyle Lotzkar, MLBTR has learned. The 23-year-old was designated for assignment earlier in the month along with fellow righty Josh Ravin to clear roster space for Johnny Cueto and Sean Marshall, each of whom was returning from the 60-day DL.
Lotzkar, 23, was a supplemental-round pick (53rd overall) by the Reds in 2007 as compensation for the loss of Scott Schoeneweis to free agency. At the time of the draft, Baseball America wrote that Lotzkar had established himself as the clear second-best prospect in Canada behind right-hander Phillipe Aumont, praising Lotzkar's projectable frame and potential for two plus pitches.
Lotzkar ranked in the Reds' Top 30 prospects, per BA, in each of the past six seasons, coming in at No. 12 prior to the 2013 campaign. In their most recent analysis, BA noted that Lotzkar possessed some of the best stuff in Cincinnati's system when at his best, calling his power curveball and 90-94 mph fastball both above-average. Health has never been a given with Lotzkar, however, as he's battled through Tommy John and a stress fracture in his right elbow since being drafted.
In 38 innings for the Reds this season, Lotzkar posted an 8.05 ERA and 37 walks, though he still boasted an impressive 41 strikeouts. Striking batters out has never been an issue for Lotzkar, and his command has typically been significantly better than it was in 2013, as evidenced by career marks of 10.5 K/9 and 4.7 BB/9.
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