Reds call-up just made an unforgivable mistake and fans are demanding a demotion

Yosver Zulueta was recalled to the Cincinnati Reds roster on Thursday, but after a critical mistake during the top of the seventh inning on Saturday, the fans already want him sent back down to the minors. Zulueta's inexcusable decision may have cost the Reds a run during their game against the Washington Nationals.

With one out and a runner on third base, Zulueta delivered an 0-1 pitch to Nationals centerfielder Jacob Young. The Nats' outfielder had already showed bunt during the previous pitch, a signal to everyone on the Reds infield that Washington was attempting to push another run across with a squeeze play.

Young offered at Zulueta's next pitch and a successful bunt attempt this time barely made it onto the infield grass. Zulueta charged, picked up the ball, and threw to first base. Wait, what? He didn't throw home? No, no he didn't. And the fans at Great American Ball Park let him have it.

Recent Reds call-up Yosver Zulueta just made an unforgivable mistake

There were audible murmurs and boos from the stands following the play, with most Reds fans in attendance seeing an easy opportunity for Zulueta to toss the ball home in an effort to cut down the runner from third base. Instead, the right-hander got the sure out at first, but the Nats increased their lead by a run.

Both announcers in the Reds' television booth — John Sadak and Barry Larkin — observed a window for Zulueta to throw home. "I think Zulueta could've easily tossed this ball, with his glove, to Tyler Stephenson," Larkin said during the broadcast. "But you know, the game happens very quickly. It looked like he had no intent at all."

The Nats went on to win the game by a final score of 11-6, and Zulueta's blunder wasn't the reason that Cincinnati lost the game. However, based on some of the recent transactions and an emphasis on holding players accountable, it wouldn't be shocking to see Zulueta shipped back to Triple-A before Sunday's series finale against Washington.

Unfortunately, MLB rules don't permit the Reds to simply recall Lyon Richardson — who was sent down last week in favor of Zulueta. Unless there's an injury, both Richardson and Alexis Diaz (who was also sent down) must remain in the minors for at least 15 days. The only pitcher likely to replace Zulueta on the active roster would be Sam Moll. The lefty has been rehabbing in Triple-A after suffering a shoulder injury last month.

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