Red Sox designate Embree, make two trades

The Red Sox were busy today, designating ineffective lefty reliever Alan Embree for assignment and making a couple of minor trades.

Embree was 1-4 with a 7.65 ERA in 43 appearances with the Red Sox this season. The move essentially means the end of Embree’s tenure with the Red Sox, who now have 10 days to either trade or release him.

In one of two trades made today, the Sox sent triple-A reliever Scott Cassidy to the Padres for outfielder Adam Hyzdu, who will join the Red Sox organization for a second time. The Sox also acquired infield help, dealing for Kansas City utility man Tony Graffanino, who has played all four infield positions this season. The Red Sox gave up minor leaguers Chip Ambres and Juan Cedeno in that deal, and will also receive a player to be named later.

Both deals were confirmed by the Boston Globe’s Gordon Edes.

Graffanino, who is hitting .298 with three homers and 18 RBIs in 59 games, may end up splitting time at second base with Alex Cora until Mark Bellhorn returns from the disabled list.

Hyzdu had been sent to the Padres during spring training in the deal that brought reliever Blaine Neal, who has since been released, to Boston. Red Sox manager Terry Francona said today that Hyzdu would be in Boston in time to join the team for tonight’s game.

Hyzdu will take Embree’s spot on the Sox’ active roster.

According to major league sources, the Red Sox are still talking with the Twins about acquiring reliever J.C. Romero, but any potential deal is still in the discussion phase. The sources said it’s possible a trade could be expanded to include a Minnesota starting pitcher as well.