Angels call up Ryan Brasier, demote Nick Maronde

The Angels recalled Ryan Brasier from Triple-A on Wednesday, hoping the career minor leaguer will be able to help a battered and bruised relief corps. To create room for him on the roster, Nick Maronde was sent back to the minors, according to Angels' broadcaster Victor Rojas.

Brasier had a real nice season back in 2011, posting a 2.92 ERA in 50 games split between Double-A and Triple-A. However, the past two years have not been nearly as friendly. In 2012 his hits ballooned and he ended up with a 4.37 ERA and 1.508 WHIP. Thus far in 2012, he has allowed nine runs in 12 innings and is sporting a 1.667 WHIP.

Maronde was called up directly from Double-A earlier in the season. Prior to being called up, he had a 6.14 ERA over six games. His lack of success carried over to the major leagues, where he gave up three runs in 2.1 innings spread over three appearances.

The fact that both players have been called up while they were struggling in the minors shows just how desperate the Angels are to improve a bullpen that sports a 4.26 ERA and has struggled to find any sense of consistency.

The Angels have had their bullpen decimated by injuries recently. Sean Burnett is the latest reliever to be placed on the disabled list, joining the ranks of Ryan Madson, Mark Lowe and Kenley Jepsen.