The Tampa Bay Rays have designated relief pitcher Grant Balfour for assignment after Saturday’s game the first step in releasing the former closer.
The Rays have promoted Brandon Gomes to take Balfour’s spot. Gomes has been added to the 40-man roster.
Balfour, struggled in the Rays’ loss to the Yankees on Saturday night, walking three, hitting a batter, throwing one wild pitch, and giving up a grand slam.
Balfour was in the second year of his 2-year. $12 million contract he signed a year ago as a free agent. Assuming the Rays cannot trade Balfour in the next 10 days, he will be released and the Rays will be responsible for the remainder of his $7 million salary this season.
Balfour said he was a little surprised at the decision, is not hurt, thinks he can do better than has been
— Marc Topkin (@TBTimes_Rays) April 19, 2015
Marc Topkin was the first to report that Balfour had been designated for assignment.
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Better surprised than baffled.
Trade him to the Dodgers, the Boy Wonder owes us one.
One more reliever walking a tightrope. Let it be a warning to him.
I just saw the farewell interview and it was all "me-myself-and-I".
Kudos to the FO. There's a new Sheriff in town.
The man just lost his father and his job. He's a human being who is allowed to express a sense of self-preservation.
Finally. Great job by the front office.
I think his lack of success the other night and subsequent release was because Chris Archer didn't get enough rest before his opening day start.
LOL!!!!!
"I think his lack of success the other night and subsequent release was because Chris Archer didn't get enough rest before his opening day start."
I nominate this for "post of the day" honors.
Made me spit coffee on my keyboard.