Duke returns to Reds on one-year deal

Cincy designates right-hander Lopez for assignment in corresponding move

February 11th, 2019
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      The Reds made their signing of reliever official on Monday, announcing that they've signed the veteran left-hander to a one-year contract.
      A source told MLB.com's Mark Sheldon that Duke's deal is for $2 million. The club hasn't confirmed the terms of the contract.
      Reds pitchers and catchers report for Spring Training in Goodyear, Ariz., on Wednesday. In a corresponding roster move Monday to make room for Duke, the Reds designated right-hander for assignment.
      Duke initially agreed to a deal with Cincinnati on Feb. 1, making him the team's first free-agent addition of the offseason. He and are the two left-handed relievers likely to be in the Reds' Opening Day bullpen.
      The 35-year-old Duke is returning to Cincinnati after pitching for the Reds during the 2013 season, a stint that helped turn his career around after being released by the Nationals earlier that year. Duke had a 0.84 ERA in 14 relief appearances with Cincinnati.
      Duke is now entering his 15th season. He spent 2018 with the Twins and Mariners, making 72 appearances with a 4.15 ERA and 51 strikeouts in 52 innings.
      Duke will wear No. 32 with the Reds. He wore No. 30 in his first stint with the team.

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      David Adler is a reporter and researcher for MLB.com based in New York. Follow him on Twitter at @_dadler.