The A's announced that they released Michael Wuertz to create 40-man roster space for right-hander Evan Scribner and outfielder Cedric Hunter, who were claimed off of waivers from the Padres. The A's held a $3.25MM option for Wuertz in 2012 ($250K buyout) and in releasing him now, they're essentially declining the option early, as expected.
Wuertz, 32, posted a 6.68 ERA with 8.6 K/9 and 7.0 BB/9 in 33 2/3 innings for the A's in 2011, just two seasons after emerging as one of the league's dominant setup men. He battled hamstring and thumb injuries this year and is now a free agent.
Scribner, 26, made his MLB debut with the Padres in 2011, posting a 7.07 ERA with 6.4 K/9 and 2.6 BB/9 in 14 innings. He spent most of the season at Triple-A Tucson, where he posted a 4.71 ERA with 8.5 K/9 and 3.8 BB/9 in 28 2/3 innings of relief. Most of Oakland's bullpen will return in 2012, so the A's won't be counting on Scribner.
Hunter, 23, spent most of the 2011 campaign at Triple-A after making San Diego's Opening Day roster. He posted a .255/.322/.358 line at Tucson, but didn't play after being placed on the disabled list with a strained right groin on July 17th.
San Diego has to make room on their 40 man roster to protect guys like Liriano, Rincon, and Galvez from the rule 5. None are on BA top 100 thus far, but all are possible superstars. Liriano is one of the best players in the lower minors. As for the guys the A’s picked up:
Scribner is a great rp imo. If I managed the Rangers or Cards I would throw him today in game 7 over many of their options for sure. He’s been a part of championship teams in the past, and he’s been reliable before his call up to the majors. He learned from the pads organization how to pitch; and he got his feet wet this last season in the big leagues. I think you’re all going to be very happy with him. He’s good.Hunter might not be a superstar but he did lead the minor in hits in 2008. He was always profiled as a lead off type hitter.