The Kansas City Royals announced on Tuesday that they’ve designated pitcher Joe Blanton for assignment. The move makes space for newly-acquired Johnny Cueto, who’s slated to make his team debut on Friday.
#Royals announce that RHP @JohnnyCueto has officially joined the club. The team has designated RHP Joe Blanton for assignment to make room.
— Kansas City Royals (@Royals) July 28, 2015
The 34-year-old Blanton has enjoyed a bit of a career renaissance with Kansas City this year, pitching to a 3.89 ERA in 15 appearances (four starts). Blanton had not been in the major leagues since 2013, when he struggled heavily with the Los Angeles Angels.
Blanton will likely be a popular target on waivers to clubs looking for either a starter or a long reliever, as he’s proven to be at least somewhat effective in both roles. If he does somehow make it through waivers, the former 16-game winner will have the option to either accept a minor-league assignment or elect free agency, where he’d surely pick up some interest from contenders who missed out on top pitchers at the trade deadline.
Next: Kansas City Royals Acquire Ben Zobrist
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