Today, the Milwaukee Brewers bolstered their bullpen by bringing up right-handed pitcher Kevin Herget, while sending Aaron Ashby, who started yesterday’s game, back to Triple-A Nashville. This move suggests the team is preparing for limited innings from today’s starter Joe Ross (who pitched 3 2⁄3 innings last week against the Mets) and tomorrow’s expected starter Wade Miley (who threw three innings in a start with Nashville last week). Consequently, they’re opting for a reliable bullpen arm in lieu of Ashby, who won’t be available for a few days.

Herget, who celebrated his 33rd birthday last week, has had brief stints in the majors over the last two seasons, playing for Tampa in 2022 and Cincinnati in 2023. Although his career ERA stands at 5.74 over 31 1⁄3 innings in the majors, he has shown promise in the minors. Throughout eleven minor league seasons, Herget boasts a 56-29 record with a 3.55 ERA, averaging 8.9 strikeouts and 2.3 walks per nine innings. However, he faced difficulties in 34 appearances at AAA-Louisville last season. Signing a minor-league contract with the Brewers in February, Herget has impressed so far this season with the Sounds, not conceding a run in three appearances, tallying three hits, a walk, and five strikeouts in 4 1⁄3 innings. Devin Williams was moved to the 60-day IL to accommodate Herget on the 40-man roster, without affecting his anticipated return in mid-to-late June.

It’s likely that Ashby will return to the Brewers soon, possibly after his next start. This could hinge on whether the team opts for a temporary six-man rotation, a reasonable consideration given the expected limitations on Miley’s pitch count.