Colton Gordon Called Up To Make Brewers Debut

What is a reliever's reward for a stellar three-inning performance that saved other bullpen members?

For right-hander Garrett Stallings, it is a trip back to the minors, but with great appreciation. Such is the life at the back end of the bullpen. Stallings was optioned back to Triple-A Nashville on Friday by the Milwaukee Brewers, who called up left-hander Colton Gordon from the Sounds.

Stallings turned in his second three-inning outing in his most recent call-up in Thursday's 7-4 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates. Stallings did not allow a run while striking out six and allowing just one hit and one walk. He hasn't allowed a run in any of his six appearances with the Brewers this year over 14 innings, giving up just four hits with 17 strikeouts and five walks, perhaps putting himself in the conversation for a spot on the postseason roster.

Gordon comes up for the first time since the Brewers acquired him with Lance McCullers Jr. and cash on July 15 for minor-league outfielder Jadyn Fielder. Gordon has appeared in 24 MLB games with the Astros, including 15 starts. Only four of those appearances and one start came this year, allowing 12 runs in 9⅓ innings with three walks and 11 strikeouts. At Triple-A Nashville this year, he has made 10 starts and pitched 54 innings, with a 4.69 ERA, 6.1% walk rate and 20.9% strikeout rate.

Meanwhile, the Brewers on Thursday designated left-hander reliever Rob Zastryzny for assignment. He was on the 15-day injured list due to a left trapezius strain and out on a rehab assignment.