Jerome

Gamble

Gamble, a Rule 5 pick of the Reds a couple of years ago, went 4-2 with a 3.94 ERA in 61 2/3 IP for Double-A Portland last season. Injuries caused the Red Sox to drop him from their 40-man roster, but he’s a decent relief prospect.

The 25-year-old Gamble, a former Red Sox prospect, had a 6.33 ERA in 42 2/3 IP as a reliever for Double-A Huntsville last season. The 48/12 K/BB ratio and two homers allowed probably had a lot to do with him getting the invitation to spring training, not that he’ll have any chance of making the team.

Gamble, 23, continues to battle injuries this season, but he was fairly effective when healthy, posting a 3.66 ERA in 14 starts and three relief appearances for Single-A Sarasota. He’ll probably end up being converted into a reliever at some point and he could develop into a setup man.

The Reds still have two Rule 5 picks on their roster. They’re likely to return Blake Williams to the Cardinals later this month and probably will keep the injured Luke Prokopec. Gamble likely will open this season at Single-A Sarasota.

The Red Sox gambled and won with Gamble last season, as the left-hander was eventually returned to the Red Sox after the Reds took him in the Rule 5 draft. They won’t take any chances with him this time. Youkilis was an obvious choice to be added to the 40-man roster, but Dominique’s inclusion was unexpected. The 28-year-old offensive-minded catcher might replace Doug Mirabelli as Jason Varitek’s backup should the Red Sox try to save a little money.

Gamble is a long shot to win a spot in the Cincinnati bullpen and likely will be offered back to the Red Sox next month.