Football

D-backs option infielder Vargas to minors following loss to Braves

The Arizona Diamondbacks optioned infielder Ildemaro Vargas to Triple-A Reno following Friday’s loss to Atlanta, manager Torey Lovullo announced.

Lovullo said the team would make a corresponding move Saturday and that it is not expected to be a pitcher.

Vargas, 27, is hitting .200 with a home run in 55 at-bats this season.

Vargas started Friday’s game at third base and went hitless in three at-bats before being replaced by Eduardo Escobar.

It’s possible the corresponding move could be catcher Alex Avila, who Lovullo said Friday was “very close” to returning from a strained left quadriceps injury that has cost him most of his season so far.

Arizona, which has typically carried three catchers on the 25-man roster under Lovullo, is currently carrying two catchers. Caleb Joseph was recently optioned to Reno, although outfielder Blake Swihart has caught previously with the Boston Red Sox.

The D-backs (22-17) and Braves continue their four-game series on Saturday at 5:10 p.m.