Three news regarding German Minor Leaguers. Donald Lutz had to make room for Joey Votto on the Cincinnati Reds roster. After playing in seven big league games (2-13, 2B, 2 BB, 5 SO) for the Reds, including four starts, he was optioned back to Triple-A Louisville, where he already played on Wednesday.

Meanwhile in Arizona, extended Spring Training is treating Maik Ehmcke well. The debutant in professional baseball has received the good news that the Arizona Diamondbacks will put him into the Pioneer League affiliate in Missoula, Montana next week. He will be joined by newly signed Markus Solbach on the Rookie league roster.