Reds: Heath Hembree’s brief success in 2021 has run its course

Cincinnati Reds relief pitcher Heath Hembree (55) shakes his head in the dugout after being relieved in the ninth inning.

It’s safe to assume, after giving up five runs in less than one inning, that Heath Hembree will be handed his walking papers when Tejay Antone returns from the injured list. In fact, Hembree may be shown the door before Antone returns. The Cincinnati Reds reliever’s disastrous performance on Monday is the latest in a long line of poor outings.

Hembree entered in the eighth inning in relief of Wade Miley who pitched seven sparkling innings, struck out seven batters, and allowed just four hits to the Chicago Cubs. Hembree entered the game and allowed three consecutive…