Cincinnati, OH (My Sportsbook) - The Cincinnati Reds continued to clean house when they dealt left-handed reliever Kent Mercker to the Braves on Tuesday in exchange for a player to be named later.

The 35-year-old Mercker, who played for the Braves from 1989-95, went 0-2 with a 2.35 ERA in 49 games for the Reds this season despite a stint on the disabled list from June 28 - July 9 with a sprained lower back. Mercker has pitched exceptionally well of late, not allowing an earned run in his last eight games.

Originally Atlanta's No. 1 pick in the 1986 June draft, Mercker registered a 31-25 record with a 3.49 ERA and 19 saves in 233 games, 54 starts, for the Braves. The highlight of his career in Atlanta was a no-hitter against the Dodgers on April 8, 1994. He also combined with two relievers on a no-hitter against the Padres on September 11, 1991.

Mercker was traded from Atlanta to Baltimore before the 1996 season. He has also played for Cleveland, St. Louis, Boston, Anaheim and Colorado, compiling a career record of 66-64 with a 4.31 ERA in 473 games, including 150 starts.

The Reds replaced Mercker's spot on the roster by purchasing the contract of lefthander Mark Watson from Triple-A Louisville. Also Tuesday, Cincinnati recalled catcher Corky Miller from Louisville and optioned pitcher Joe Valentine to the Triple-A level.

The Braves designated outfielder Cory Aldridge for assignment to make room for Mercker on the 40-man roster.

It's been a complete transformation for the Reds in the last month. On July 28 they fired manager Bob Boone and general manager Jim Bowden. The team has since traded away reliever Scott Williamson, power-hitting outfielder Jose Guillen, reliever Gabe White and third baseman Aaron Boone. Those players combined to make just over $9.1 million this season. Mercker was pulling in $550,000 this year.