Melancon optioned, Tazawa recalled

In a surprise to no one, relief pitcher Mark Melancon has been optioned to Triple-A Pawtucket. Junichi Tazawa will take his place.

In 7 innings with Pawtucket in 2012, Tazawa has posted a 9/2 strikeout to walk ratio, while allowing 5 hits, including none for home runs. He’s held batters to 0 earned runs.

Melancon, acquired to set up and possibly close, had clearly worked himself out of manager Bobby Valentine’s favor, possibly even before the season’s start. In the first game of the season, Valentine displayed a quick hook, pulling Melancon after a fly out and two singles, late in a 2-2 game.

Though Melancon’s velocity remains intact, he’s had troubling locating his fastball, often leaving it straight it right over the plate. A detour to the minors will provide the best opportunity for him to address his issues before hopefully rejoining the team.