Reds acquire Gausman on waivers from Braves

CINCINNATI -- Kevin Gausman was instrumental in helping the Braves win the National League East last season. The Reds, who claimed Gausman off waivers on Monday, are hoping the 28-year-old right-hander can find his form and help them go on a similar run.

“He’s still a young pitcher,” said Reds manager David Bell. “We think as an organization that there’s even more upside there. We were all very excited about claiming him.”

Gausman posted a 1.66 ERA in his first six starts last season for Atlanta after being acquired from the Orioles on July 31 prior to the non-waiver Trade Deadline. But a difficult September, during which he gave up 12 earned runs over his last four starts, resulted in Gausman being left off the Braves’ postseason roster.

“The execution of the fastball wasn’t there,” said Atlanta general manager Alex Anthopoulos. “He’ll get it going again. We don’t win the division last year without Kevin Gausman and what he did for us the last two months. He did a lot for us. I want to thank him for being a huge part of us winning the division last year.”

Gausman’s struggles continued into this season, with a 6.19 ERA through 16 starts. But Bell believes the change of scenery and some time with highly respected pitching coach Derek Johnson could help Gausman get back on track. He has been working to expand his two-pitch arsenal (four-seam fastball and splitter) this season.

“He’s had success,” Bell said. “Having the opportunity to work with our pitching coaches and maybe find an opportunity there to help him get better.”

The Reds expect Gausman to arrive in Cincinnati by Tuesday. They will need to make a corresponding roster move at that time.

Bell said Gausman will be utilized in the bullpen in a long-relief role initially, but with the potential at some point to cover the later innings.

“We see him helping us a lot in that role,” Bell said.