Reds News: Matt McLain 'close' to swinging, Conner Capel outrighted, Blake Dunn to IL

The Cincinnati Reds had a tough weekend against the Boston Red Sox. The Redlegs won Game 1 of the three-game set, but dropped the next two — both were winnable games.

Cincinnati has lost three consecutive series and will look to get back in the win column on Monday against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Thankfully, the Reds will miss Paul Skenes and Jared Jones, as both the Buccos' right-handed rookies pitched over the weekend against the Tampa Bay Rays.

Reds manager David Bell, who was ejected for the 30th time in his career, will send Carson Spiers to the hill for Monday's series opener. But before Sunday's game, Bell gave yet another positive update as it relates to second-year infielder Matt McLain.

Reds News: Matt McLain to start swinging soon

Noelvi Marte could return as soon as this week, but it may be a little longer before McLain rejoins his teammates in the Reds dugout. McLain has been out of action since Opening Day after suffering a shoulder injury during spring training.

On Sunday, Bell said that McLain is close to swinging the bat in a process that will include a step-by-step progression. The Reds desperately need McLain's bat back in the lineup, but August is the absolute earliest that the Cincinnati faithful should expect last year's rookie back on the field.

Reds News: Conner Capel outrighted to Triple-A Louisville Bats

Conner Capel's time on the Reds' 40-man roster was rather abbreviated. The outfielder, who signed a minor-league deal with the Reds this past offseason, was called up earlier this season, but quickly sent back to Triple-A Louisville. Last week, Capel was DFA'd in order to make room for catcher Austin Wynns.

Wynns was eventually DFA'd himself, and his future with the club has yet to be determined. Capel, however, accepted an outright assignment to Triple-A and will continue playing for manager Pat Kelly and the Louisville Bats.

Reds News: Blake Dunn to IL after being hit in the head

One of Capel's teammates will be out of action for at least a week. Outfielder Blake Dunn was struck in the head by a pitch during Saturday's game against the Omaha Storm Chasers. Dunn exited the game and was not in the lineup for the Bats on Sunday.

Dunn appeared on the Bats' injured list with a face laceration and will miss at least the minimum of seven days. Reds fans will remember that Dunn took a shot off his helmet during this brief run with the big league club earlier this year. Dunn popped up quickly and jogged down to first base. He did not have the same reaction on Saturday and will miss some time as a result. Reds Country is hoping for a quick recovery.

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