Cleveland Indians call up Ryan Webb, designate Jerry Sands for assignment

The Indians have called up reliever Ryan Webb from Triple-A, in an effort to strengthen the bullpen, which has been the opposite of strong so far this season. In order to make room for him on the 40-man (and 25-man) roster, outfielder Jerry Sands has been designated for assignment.

Webb, a 29-year-old righty, has appeared in 5 games so far this season for the Clippers, allowing only 1 run in 8 innings of work, with only five batters reaching base. He's pitched in MLB in each of the past six seasons, spending time with the Padres, Marlins, and Orioles. He hasn't posted big strikeout figures, but has been pretty good about not walking batters, and keeping the ball in the park.

Sands, a 27-year-old right-handed hitter, did well in his limited playing time with the Indians, batting .348/.400/.435 in 25 plate appearances this month. He's never been an MLB regular though, and with Nick Swisher set to return next week, there wasn't going to be room for Sands much longer even if Francona didn't want another bullpen option.

The Indians now have ten days to try and work out a trade involving Sands, or to put him on waivers. If he's placed on waivers and he clears them, he could be sent to Columbus, otherwise his time with the organization is at an end.