The D’Backs released relief pitcher Bob Howry after acquiring Saul Rivera, for cash considerations, from the Indians.
Howry finished the ’09 season strong, but was horrendous in his first 14 appearances this year. He posted a 10.67 ERA in 14.1 innings of work. Howry surrendered 18 hits, six HRs and six walks while recording just six Ks. It doesn’t get much worse than that.
Howry turns 37 in August. His career might be over. Because he was effective at the end of last season, Howry can continue to play if he’s willing to prove himself in AAA.
The Rattlers are on the hook for the lion’s share of his $2.25 million 2010 salary.
Rivera appears to be a slight upgrade. He had two fairly decent seasons as a middle reliever for the Nationals in 2007 and 2008, but pitched poorly in 2009. He began this season at AAA Columbus.
While there, Rivera posted a spectacular 0.53 ERA in 17 innings of work; although his ratios aren’t as impressive as his ERA.
Rivera is no youngster either, he’s 32, which likely explains why the Indians gave him up solely for cash considerations.
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