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MLB: Know Your 2015 Rosters

 

(originally posted April 1, 2015)

 

 

The 2014-15 winter, to put it mildly, was active. Easily the most active in the 25 years I've followed the game. There have been larger, more lucrative free-agent winters in my time, but if there have been more multi-team trades, more multi-trade days and more full roster makeovers in a single off-season before this one...I don't remember it.

 

This slideshow was originally slated for a March 1 posting, but the GM's phones wouldn't stop ringing—movement continued even after pitchers and catchers reported to camp. Rather than do a rush job to meet the deadline, or present incomplete, sloppy work, TSR delayed the slideshow until the flurry of deals finally let up (even then, we still had to accommodate Chris R. Young, who didn't sign until March.)

 

In this slideshow, we feature almost every notable major leaguer to move clubs via major league free agent contract, trade, or waiver acquisition. The late date presentation allows us to update the status of any players who did not make his team's Opening Day roster. Players who re-signed with their own teams (Ryan Vogelsong, Josh Johnson) will not be listed, nor will retired players (Bob Abreu, Josh Beckett).

 

Late-spring trades/signings will be detailed in another slideshow. For notable non-roster invitees, click here.

Nelson Cruz, Mariners

Nelson Cruz, Mariners

Signed a four-year, $58M deal in December. .271, 40 HR, 108 RBI in 159 games with Orioles last season.

Max Scherzer, Nationals

Max Scherzer, Nationals

Signed seven-year, $201M deal in January. 18-5, 3.15, 220.1 IP in 33 starts with Tigers last season.

Matt Kemp, Padres

Matt Kemp, Padres

Traded by Dodgers with Tim Federowicz and cash in exchange for Yasmani Grandal and two prospects in December. .287, 25, 89 in 150 games last season.

David Robertson, White Sox

David Robertson, White Sox

Signed four-year, $46M deal in December. 3.08 ERA, 39/44 saves, 96 K in 64 games with Yankees last season.

Pablo Sandoval, Red Sox

Pablo Sandoval, Red Sox

Signed five-year, $95M deal in November. .279, 16 HR, 73 RBI in 157 games for Giants last season.

Jon Lester, Cubs

Jon Lester, Cubs

Signed six-year, $155M deal in December. 16-11, 2.46, 219.2 IP in 32 starts with Red Sox and Athletics last season.

Yoenis Cespedes, Tigers

Yoenis Cespedes, Tigers

Traded by Red Sox in exchange for Rick Porcello in December. .260, 22, 100 in 152 games for Athletics and Red Sox last season.

James Shields, Padres

James Shields, Padres

Signed four-year, $72M deal in February. 14-8, 3.21, 180 K in 34 starts (227 IP) with Royals last season.

Hanley Ramirez, Red Sox

Hanley Ramirez, Red Sox

Signed four-year, $88M deal in November. .283, 13 HR, 71 RBi in 128 games for Dodgers last season.

Jeff Samardzija, White Sox

Jeff Samardzija, White Sox

Traded by Athletics with prospect Michael Ynoa in exchange for Chris Bassitt, Josh Phegley, Marcus Semien and prospect Rangel Ravelo in December. 7-13, 2.99, 202 K in 219.2 IP for Cubs and Athletics last season.

Justin Upton, Padres

Justin Upton, Padres

Traded by Braves in exchange for three prospects including Jace Peterson in January. .270, 29, 102 in 154 games last season.

Ervin Santana, Twins

Ervin Santana, Twins

Signed four-year, $54M deal in December. 14-10, 3.95, 196.0 IP in 31 starts with Braves last season. Update: Suspended for first 80 games of season following failed PED test.

Jimmy Rollins, Dodgers

Jimmy Rollins, Dodgers

Traded by Phillies in exchange for prospects Zach Eflin and Tom Windle in December. .243, 17, 55 in 138 games last season.

Edinson Volquez, Royals

Edinson Volquez, Royals

Signed two-year, $20M deal in December. 13-7, 3.04, 140 K in 31 starts (192.2 IP) with Pirates last season.

Torii Hunter, Twins

Torii Hunter, Twins

Signed one-year, $10M deal in December. .286, 17 HR, 83 RBi in 142 games with Tigers last season.

Rick Porcello, Red Sox

Rick Porcello, Red Sox

Traded by Tigers in exchange for Yoenis Cespedes, Alex Wilson and prospect Gabe Speier. 15-13, 3.43, 204.1 IP in 32 games (31 starts) last season.

Ichiro Suzuki, Marlins

Ichiro Suzuki, Marlins

Signed one-year, $2M deal in January. .284, 1, 22 in 143 games with Yankees last season.

A.J. Burnett, Pirates

A.J. Burnett, Pirates

Signed a one-year, $8.5M deal in November. 8-18, 4.59 in 213.2 IP with Phillies last season.

Marlon Byrd, Reds

Marlon Byrd, Reds

Traded by Phillies with $ in exchange for prospect in December. .264, 25, 85 in 154 games last season.

Pat Neshek, Astros

Pat Neshek, Astros

Signed two-year, $12.5M deal in December. 1.87 ERA, six saves, 68 K in 71 games with Cardinals last season.

Russ Martin, Blue Jays

Russ Martin, Blue Jays

Signed five-year, $82M deal in November. .290, 11 HR, 67 RBI with Pirates last season.

Alfredo Simon, Tigers

Alfredo Simon, Tigers

Traded by Reds in exchange for two prospects in December. 15-10, 3.44 in 32 starts last season.

Josh Donaldson, Blue Jays

Josh Donaldson, Blue Jays

Traded by Athletics in exchange for Brett Lawrie and three prospects in late November. .255, 29 HR, 98 RBI last season.

Jason Hammel, Cubs

Jason Hammel, Cubs

Signed two-year, $18M deal in December. 10-11, 4.26 with Cubs/Athletics last season.

Unnamed left Fielder, White Sox

Unnamed left Fielder, White Sox

Signed three-year, $45M deal in December. .301, 16, 73 in 139 games with Blue Jays last season.

Andrew Miller, Yankees

Andrew Miller, Yankees

Signed four-year, $36M deal in December. 2.02 ERA, 0.8 WHIP in 73 games with Red Sox/Orioles last season.

Wil Myers, Padres

Wil Myers, Padres

Acquired from Rays in three-team deal with Nationals in December. .222, 6, 35 in 87 games last season.

Brandon McCarthy, Dodgers

Brandon McCarthy, Dodgers

Signed four-year, $48M deal with Dodgers in December. 10-15, 4.00, 200 IP in 32 starts with Diamondbacks and Yankees last season.

Dee Gordon, Marlins

Dee Gordon, Marlins

Traded by Dodgers with Dan Haren, Miguel Rojas and $ in exchange for Chris Hatcher, Andrew Kearny, Enrique Hernandez and prospect Austin Barnes. .289, 64 SB in 148 games last season.

Nate Eovaldi, Yankees

Nate Eovaldi, Yankees

Traded by Marlins with Garrett Jones in exchange for Martin Prado and David Phelps in December. 6-14, 4.37 in 33 starts/199.2 IP last season.

Evan Gattis, Astros

Evan Gattis, Astros

Traded by Braves in exchange for three prospects in January. .263, 22, 52 in 108 games last season.

Yovani Gallardo, Rangers

Yovani Gallardo, Rangers

Traded by Brewers in exchange for Corey Knebel, Luis Sardinas and prospect Marcos Diplan in January. 8-11, 3.51, 192.1 IP in 32 starts last season.

Martin Prado, Marlins

Martin Prado, Marlins

Traded by Yankees with David Phelps in exchange for Garrett Jones and Nate Eovaldi in December. .282, 12, 58 in 143 games with Diamondbacks and Yankees last season.

Aaron Harang, Phillies

Aaron Harang, Phillies

Signed one-year, $5M deal in January. 12-12, 3.57 in 33 starts (204.1 IP) with Braves last season.

Adam LaRoche, White Sox

Adam LaRoche, White Sox

Signed a two-year, $25M contract in November..259, 26 HR, 92 RBI in 140 games with Nationals last season.

Casey Janssen, Nationals

Casey Janssen, Nationals

Signed a one-year, $5M deal in February. 25/30 saves, 3.94 ERA in 50 games with Blue Jays last season.

Jason Heyward, Cardinals

Jason Heyward, Cardinals

Traded by Braves in exchange for Shelby Miller in November. .271, 11 HR, 58 RBI, 20 SB and Gold Glove last season.

Kyle Kendrick, Rockies

Kyle Kendrick, Rockies

Signed one-year, $5.5M deal in February. 10-13, 4.61 in 32 starts (199 IP) with Phillies last season.

Nick Markakis, Braves

Nick Markakis, Braves

Signed four-year, $44M deal in December. .276, 14 HR, 50 RBI in 150 games weith Orioles last season.

Tyler Clippard, Athletics

Tyler Clippard, Athletics

Traded by Nationals in exchange for SS Yunel Escobar in January. 2.18 ERA, 1 SV, 82 K in 70 games last season.

Howie Kendrick, Dodgers

Howie Kendrick, Dodgers

Traded by Angels in exchange for Andrew Kearny in December. .293, 7, 75 in 157 games last season.

Mat Latos, Marlins

Mat Latos, Marlins

Traded by Reds in exchange for Anthony DeSclafani and prospect Chad Wallach in December. 5-5, 3.25 in 16 starts last season.

Michael Cuddyer, Mets

Michael Cuddyer, Mets

Signed two-year, $21M deal in November. .332, 10 HR, 31 RBI in 49 games with Rockies last season.

Shelby Miller, Braves

Shelby Miller, Braves

Traded by Cardinals in exchange for Jason Heyward. 10-9, 3.74, 183 IP last season.

Ben Zobrist, Athletics

Ben Zobrist, Athletics

Traded by Rays with SS Yunel Escobar in exchange for C John Jaso, two prospects and cash in January. .272, 10, 52 in 146 games last season.

Gavin Floyd, Indians

Gavin Floyd, Indians

Signed one-year, $4M deal (plus incentives) in December. 2-2, 2.65, 45 K in 9 starts (54 IP) with Braves last season.

Mike Morse, Marlins

Mike Morse, Marlins

Signed two-year, $16M deal in December. .279, 16, 61 in 131 games with Giants last season.

Luke Gregerson, Astros

Luke Gregerson, Astros

Signed three-year, $18.5M deal in December. 2.12 ERA, 59 K in 72 games with Athletics last season.

A.J. Pierzynski, Braves

A.J. Pierzynski, Braves

Signed one-year, $2M deal in January. .251, 5, 37 in 102 games with Red Sox and Cardinals last season.

Jason Grilli, Braves

Jason Grilli, Braves

Signed two-year, $8M deal in January. 4.00, 12 SV in 62 games with Pirates and Angels last season.

Asdrubal Cabrera, Rays

Asdrubal Cabrera, Rays

Signed one-year, $7.5M deal in January. .241, 14, 61 in 146 games with Indians and Nationals last season.

Justin Masterson, Red Sox

Justin Masterson, Red Sox

Signed one-year, $9M deal in December. 7-9, 5.88 in 28 games (25 starts) for Indians and Cardinals last season.

Rickie Weeks, Mariners

Rickie Weeks, Mariners

Signed one-year, $2M deal in February. .274, 8, 29 in 121 games with Brewers last season.

Wade Miley, Red Sox

Wade Miley, Red Sox

Traded by Diamondbacks in exchange for Rubby de la Rosa, Allan Webster and prospect Raymel Flores in December. 8-12, 4.34, 201.1 IP in 33 starts last season.

Kendrys Morales, Royals

Kendrys Morales, Royals

Signed two-year, $17M deal in December. .218, 8, 42 in 98 games with Twins and Mariners last season.

Dan Haren,Marlins

Dan Haren,Marlins

Traded by Dodgers with Dee Gordon and Miguel Rojas in exchange for Chris Hatcher, Enrique Hernandez and two prospects in December. 13-11, 4.02, 145 K in 32 GS/186 IP last season.

Billy Butler, Athletics

Billy Butler, Athletics

Signed three-year, $30M deal in November. .271, 9 HR, 66 RBI with Royals last season.

Jeremy Hellickson, Diamondbacks

Jeremy Hellickson, Diamondbacks

Traded by Rays in exchange for prospects Andrew Velazquez and Justin Williams in November. 1-5, 4.52, 63.2 IP in 13 starts last season.

Nick Hundley, Rockies

Nick Hundley, Rockies

Signed two-year, $6.25M deal in January. .243, 6, 22 in 83 games with Padres and Orioles last season.

Jason Motte, Cubs

Jason Motte, Cubs

Signed one-year, $4.5M deal in December. 17 K, 4.68 in 29 games and 25 IP with Cardinals last season.

Brandon Moss, Indians

Brandon Moss, Indians

Traded by Athletics in exchange for prospect Joey Werdle in December. .234, 25 HR, 81 RBI in 147 games last season.

Zach Duke, White Sox

Zach Duke, White Sox

Signed three-year, $15M deal in November. 2.45 ERA in 74 games with Brewers last season.

Everth Cabrera, Orioles

Everth Cabrera, Orioles

Signed one-year, $2.4M deal in February. .232, 3, 20 in 90 games with Padres last season.

Jim Johnson, Braves

Jim Johnson, Braves

Signed one-year, $1.6M deal in December. 7.09 ERA, 2 SV in 54 games with Athletics/Tigers last season.

Mark Reynolds, Cardinals

Mark Reynolds, Cardinals

Signed one-year, $2M deal in Decemberl .196, 22, 45 in 130 games with Brewers last season.

Shawn Kelley, Padres

Shawn Kelley, Padres

Traded by Yankees in exchange for prospect in December. 4.53, 4 SV, 67 K in 59 games (51.2 IP) last season.

Jonny Gomes, Braves

Jonny Gomes, Braves

Signed one-year, $4M deal in January. .234, 6, 37 in 112 games with Red Sox and Athletics last season.

Ernesto Frieri, Rays

Ernesto Frieri, Rays

Signed one-year, $800K deal in November. 7.34 ERA, 1.46 WHIP in 48 games with Angels/Pirates last season.

Corey Hart, Pirates

Corey Hart, Pirates

Signed one-year, $2.5M deal (with up to $2.5M in incentives) .203, 6, 21 in 68 games with Mariners last season.

Jordan Walden, Cardinals

Jordan Walden, Cardinals

Traded by Braves with Jason Heyward in exchange for Shelby Miller in November. 2.88, 3 SV, 62 K in 50 games last season.

Garrett Jones, Yankees

Garrett Jones, Yankees

Traded by Marlins with Nate Eovaldi in exchange for Martin Prado and David Phelps in December. .246, 15, 53 in 146 games last season.

Antonio Bastardo, Pirates

Antonio Bastardo, Pirates

Traded by Phillies for a prospect in December. 3.94 ERA, 81 K in 67 games last season.

Dexter Fowler, Cubs

Dexter Fowler, Cubs

Traded by Astros in exchange for Luis Valbuena and Dan Straily in January. .276, 8, 35 in 116 games last season.

Neal Cotts, Brewers

Neal Cotts, Brewers

Signed one-year, $3M deal in January. 4.32, 63 K in 73 games (66.2 IP) with Rangers last season.

Justin Ruggiano, Mariners

Justin Ruggiano, Mariners

Traded by Cubs in exchange for prospect Matt Brazis in December. .281, 6, 28 in 81 games last season.

Burke Badenhop, Reds

Burke Badenhop, Reds

Signed one-year, $1M deal in February. 2.29, 40 K in 70 games (70.2 IP) with Red Sox last season.

Casey McGehee, Giants

Casey McGehee, Giants

Traded by Marlins in exchange for two prospects in December. .257, 4, 76 in 160 games last season.

Chris Young, Royals

Chris Young, Royals

Signed one-year, $675K deal in March. 12-9, 3.65 in 29 starts for Mariners last season.

Colby Rasmus, Astros

Colby Rasmus, Astros

Signed one-year, $8M deal in January. .225, 18, 40 in 104 games with Blue Jays last season.

Kevin Jepsen, Rays

Kevin Jepsen, Rays

Traded by Angels in exchange for Matt Joyce in December. 75 K, 2.63 in 74 games and 65 IP last season.

Rene Rivera, Rays

Rene Rivera, Rays

Acquired from Padres in three-team deal with Nationals in December. .252, 11, 44 in 103 games last season.

David Carpenter, Yankees

David Carpenter, Yankees

Traded by Braves in exchange for prospect in January. 3.54, 3 SV, 67 K in 65 games last season.

Miguel Montero, Cubs

Miguel Montero, Cubs

Traded by Diamondbacks in exchange for two prospects in December..243, 13, 72 in 136 games last season.

David Phelps, Marlins

David Phelps, Marlins

Traded by Yankees with Martin Prado in exchange for Garrett Jones and Nate Eovaldi in December. 5-5, 4.38 in 32 games (17 starts) last season.

Chris Denorfia, Cubs

Chris Denorfia, Cubs

Signed one-year, $2.6M deal in January. .230, 3, 21 in 121 games with Padres and Mariners last season.

Brett Anderson, Dodgers

Brett Anderson, Dodgers

Signed one-year, $10M deal in December. Yes, you read that right. 1-3, 2.91, 29 K in 8 starts (43 IP) with Rockies last season.

Nori Aoki, Giants

Nori Aoki, Giants

Signed one-year, $4.7M deal in January. .285, 1, 43, 17 SB in 132 games with Royals last season.

Ross Detwiler, Rangers

Ross Detwiler, Rangers

Traded by Nationals in exchange for two prospects in December. 4.00 ERA, 39 K in 47 games last season.

Yunel Escobar, Nationals

Yunel Escobar, Nationals

Traded by Rays to Athletics in Ben Zobrist swap, then by Athletics to Nationals for RP Tyler Clippard. .258, 7, 39 in 137 games last season.

Brandon Morrow, Padres

Brandon Morrow, Padres

Signed one-year, $2.5M deal with incentives in December. 1-3, 5.67 in 13 games (six starts) with Blue Jays last season.

Matt Joyce, Angels

Matt Joyce, Angels

Traded by Rays in exchange for Kevin Jepsen in December. .254, 9, 52 in 140 games last season.

Chad Billingsley, Phillies

Chad Billingsley, Phillies

Signed one-year, $1.5M deal in January. On disabled list with Dodgers last season.

John Jaso, Rays

John Jaso, Rays

Traded by Athletics with two prospects in exchange for Yunel Escobar and Ben Zobrist in January. .264, 9, 40 in 99 games last season.

Tom Gorzelanny, Tigers

Tom Gorzelanny, Tigers

Signed one-year, $1M deal in January. 0.86, 23 K in 23 games (21 IP) with Brewers last season.

Luis Valbuena, Astros

Luis Valbuena, Astros

Traded by Cubs with Dan Straily in exchange for Dexter Fowler in January. .249, 16, 51 in 149 games last season.

Dustin McGowan, Dodgers

Dustin McGowan, Dodgers

Signed one-year, $508K deal in February. 4.17, SV, 61 K in 53 games (eight starts, 82 IP) with Blue Jays last season. Update: did not make Dodgers roster; released, signed to minors deal with Phillies.

Daniel Descalso, Rockies

Daniel Descalso, Rockies

Signed two-year, $3.6M deal in December. .240, 0, 10 in 104 games with Cardinals last season.

Matt Belisle, Cardinals

Matt Belisle, Cardinals

Signed one-year, $3.5M deal in December. 4.87, 1.44 WHP, 43 K in 64 games with Rockies last season.

Will Middlebrooks, Padres

Will Middlebrooks, Padres

Traded by Red Sox in exchange for catcher Ryan Hanigan in December. .191, 2, 19 in 63 games last season.

Brett Lawrie, Athletics

Brett Lawrie, Athletics

Traded by Blue Jays with three prospects in exchange for Josh Donaldson in December. .247, 12 HR, 38 RBI in 70 games last season.

Yasmani Grandal, Dodgers

Yasmani Grandal, Dodgers

Traded by Padres with prospects in exchange for Matt Kemp, Tim Federowicz and cash in December. .225, 15 HR, 49 RBI in 128 games last season.

Derek Norris, Padres

Derek Norris, Padres

Traded by Athletics in exchange for P Jesse Hahn and RP R.J. Alvarez in December. .270, 10, 55 in 127 games last season.

Jed Lowrie, Astros

Jed Lowrie, Astros

Signed three-year, $23M deal in December. .249, 6, 50 in 136 games with Athletics last season.

Travis Snider, Orioles

Travis Snider, Orioles

Traded by Pirates in exchange for two prospects in December. .264, 13, 38 in 140 games last season.

Emilio Bonifacio, White Sox

Emilio Bonifacio, White Sox

Signed one-year, $4M deal in January. .259, 3, 24, 26 SB in 110 games with Cubs and Braves last season.

Dan Jennings, White Sox

Dan Jennings, White Sox

Traded by Marlins in exchange for P Andre Rienzo in December. 1.34 ERA in 47 games last season.

Ryan Hanigan, Red Sox

Ryan Hanigan, Red Sox

Traded by Padres in exchange for Will Middlebrooks in December (immediately after being acquired from Rays in a three-team deal with Nationals). .218, 5, 34 in 84 games last season.

J.A. Happ, Mariners

J.A. Happ, Mariners

Traded by Blue Jays in exchange for Michael Saunders. 11-11, 4.22 in 30 games (26 starts) last season.

Michael Saunders, Blue Jays

Michael Saunders, Blue Jays

Traded by Mariners in exchange for J.A. Happ in December. .273, 8 HR, 34 RBI in 78 games last season.

John Axford, Rockies

John Axford, Rockies

Signed one-year, $2.6M deal in February. 3.95, 10 SV, 63 K in 62 games with Indians and Pirates last season.

Adam Lind, Brewers

Adam Lind, Brewers

Traded by Blue Jays in exchange for Marco Estrada in November. .321, 6, 40 in 96 games last season.

Kyuji Fujikawa, Rangers

Kyuji Fujikawa, Rangers

Signed one-year, $1M (plus incentives) deal in December. 4.85, 17 K in 15 games (13 IP) with Cubs last season.

Clint Barmes, Padres

Clint Barmes, Padres

Signed one-year, $1.3M deal in December. .245, 0 HR, 7 RBI in 48 games with Pirates last season.

Joel Peralta, Dodgers

Joel Peralta, Dodgers

Acquired in November trade with Rays involving three prospects. 4.49 ERA, 1.18 WHIP in 69 games last season.

David Ross, Cubs

David Ross, Cubs

Signed two-year, $5.5 deal in December. .184, 7, 15 in 50 games with Red Sox last season.

Aaron Crow, Marlins

Aaron Crow, Marlins

Traded by Royals in exchange for two prospects in November. 4.12 ERA, 1.29 WHIP in 67 games last season.

Ike Davis, Athletics

Ike Davis, Athletics

Traded by Pirates in exchange for international draft $ in November. .233, 11 HR, 51 RBI in 143 games with Mets/Pirates last season.

Tim Stauffer, Twins

Tim Stauffer, Twins

Signed one-year, $2.2M deal in December. 6-2, 3.50, 67 K in 44 games (3 starts) with Padres last season.

Alberto Callaspo, Braves

Alberto Callaspo, Braves

Signed one-year, $3M deal in December. .223, 4, 39 in 127 games with Athletics last season.

Marco Estrada, Blue Jays

Marco Estrada, Blue Jays

Traded by Brewers in exchange for Adam Lind in November. 7-6, 4.36 in 150.2 IP last season.

Sean Rodriguez, Pirates

Sean Rodriguez, Pirates

Traded by Rays in exchange for a player to be named later and cash in early December. .211, 12 HR, 41 RBI in 96 games last season.

Cesar Ramos, Angels

Cesar Ramos, Angels

Traded by Rays in exchange for prospect Mark Sappington in November. 3.70 ERA, 66 K in 43 games (7 starts) last season.

Didi Gregorious, Yankees

Didi Gregorious, Yankees

Traded by Diamondbacks in 3-team deal sending Shane Greene from Yankees to Tigers. .226, 6 HR, 27 RBI in 80 games last season.

Alexi Ogando, Red Sox

Alexi Ogando, Red Sox

Signed one-year, $1.5M deal in January. 6.24, 22 K in 27 games (25 IP) with Rangers last season.

Francisco Cervelli, Pirates

Francisco Cervelli, Pirates

Traded by Yankees in exchange for Justin Wilson in December. .301, 2, 13 in 49 games last season.

Chris Colabello, Blue Jays

Chris Colabello, Blue Jays

Acquired off waivers in December. .229, 6, 39 in 59 games with Twins last season. Update: Outrighted off 40-man roster in February, but remains in Jays organization at AAA.

John Mayberry Jr,. Mets

John Mayberry Jr,. Mets

Signed one-year, $145M deal in December. .212, 7, 23 in 78 games for Phillies/Blue Jays last season.

Anthony Gose, Tigers

Anthony Gose, Tigers

Traded by Blue Jays in exchange for prospect in November. .226, 2, 13 in 94 games last season.

Will Harris, Astros

Will Harris, Astros

Acquired off waivers from Diamondbacks in November. 4.34 ERA, 35 K in 29 games last season.

Drew Butera, Angels

Drew Butera, Angels

Traded by Dodgers in exchange for player to be named or cash in December. .188, 3, 14 in 61 games last season.

Justin Wilson, Yankees

Justin Wilson, Yankees

Traded by Pirates in exchange for Francisco Cervelli in November. 4.20 ERA, 61 K in 70 games last season.

Jordan Danks, Phillies

Jordan Danks, Phillies

Acquired off waivers from White Sox in January. .222, 2, 10 in 51 games last season. Update: did not make Phillies roster; demoted to minors.

Shane Greene, Tigers

Shane Greene, Tigers

Traded by Yankees in 3-team deal sending Didi Gregorious from Diamondbacks to Yankees in December. 5-4, 3.78 in 14 starts last season.

Hank Conger, Astros

Hank Conger, Astros

Traded by Angels in exchange for Nick Tropeano and prospect Carlos Perez in November. .221, 4, 25 in 80 games last season.

Juan Nicasio, Dodgers

Juan Nicasio, Dodgers

Acquired in November trade with Rockies for cash/player to be named later. 6-6, 5.38 ERA 1.47 WHIP in 33 games (14 starts) last season.

Tommy LaStella, Cubs

Tommy LaStella, Cubs

Traded by Braves in exchange for Arodys Vizcaino in November. .251, 1, 31 in 93 games last season.

MLB: Know Your Non-Roster Invitees

 

(originally posted 4/7/15)

 

 

This year, more than ever, established veteran players...coming off decent-to-good statistical years...still in or near their prime...with no health issues still settled for make-good minor league deals. Cases in point: 33-year-old Phil Coke (3.88 ERA in 62 games with Detroit) 25-year-old Dayan Viciedo (21 HR, 58 RBI—albeit with a .231 average and .281 OBP—for the White Sox) and 33-year-old Jared Burton (1.1 WHIP, 3.47 ERA in 203 games over past three seasons with Twins).

 

Headliners from as recently as 2013 such as Eric Young, Jr. (2013 NL steals champ) Jose Veras (21-save closer in 2013) and Chris Perez (2011-12 All-Star with 75 saves over that period) are no longer the stars of their teams—they're just trying to make their teams. So goes the fickle nature of pro sports.

 

Here is a rundown of the most significant non-roster invitees (in alphabetical order) along with their claims to fame and current roster status.

 

 

Mike Adams, 36, Dodgers - Best known for setup work for Padres/Rangers 2008-12. 2.89 in 22 games with Phillies last season,; missed time with shoulder injury. STATUS: Won spot on Dodgers' roster.

 

 

Matt Albers, 32, White Sox - Best known for relief work with Orioles/Red Sox/Indians 2008-13. 0.90 in eight games with Astros last season; missed final five months with shoulder tendinitis. STATUS: Won spot on White Sox roster.

 

 

Scott Baker, 33, Yankees - 55 wins for Twins 2007-11. 5.47 in 25 games (8 GS) with Rangers last season. Spent most of first seven weeks in AAA. STATUS: Released; signed minor league contract with Dodgers.

 

 

Joe Blanton, 34, Royals -  72-game winner for Athletics/Phillies 2005-10. 2-14, 6.04 in 28 games (20 GS) with Angels last season. STATUS: Did not make Royals roster; demoted to minors.

 

 

John Buck, 34, Braves - Catcher for several teams, most notably Royals, from 2004-14. 134 career HR in 1,090 games. 2010 All-Star. STATUS: Opted to retire.

 

 

Blaine Boyer, 33, Twins - Best known for relief work with Braves/Diamondbacks 2008-10. 3.57 in 32 games with Padres last season. STATUS: Won spot on Twins' roster.

 

 

Jared Burton, 33, Yankees - Workhorse reliever for Reds/Twins since 2007;  3.44 ERA in 367 career games. 4.36 in 68 games with Twins last season. STATUS: Did not make Yankees roster; released.

 

 

Matt Capps, 31, Braves - 108 saves 2007-10 for Pirates/Nats/Twins; 2010 All-Star. Out of majors since 2012. Underwent shoulder surgery in June 2013; only 10 MiLB appearances 2013-14. STATUS: Released; but re-signed to minor-league deal.

 

 

Fausto Carmona (Roberto Hernandez), 34, Astros - 52 wins for Indians 2007-11, including 19 in 2007. 2010 All-Star. 8-11, 4.10 in 32 games (29 starts) with Phillies/Dodgers last season. STATUS: Won spot on Astros roster.

 

 

Mike Carp, 28, Nationals - 26 HR, 109 RBI in 670 AB as reserve 1B/OF for Mariners/Red Sox 2011-13. .175, 0 HR, 13 RBI, .230 SLG with Red Sox/Rangers last season. STATUS: Did not make Nationals roster; refused minors assignment and is free agent.

 

 

Bruce Chen, 37, Indians - Journeyman pitcher most recently spent most of six seasons with Royals; 44 wins 2010-13 before release last summer. 7.45 in 13 games (7 GS) with Royals last season. STATUS: Did not make Indians roster; demoted to minors.

 

 

Pedro Ciriaco, 30, Braves - Utility IF/OF started 70 games for 2012 Red Sox; .213 in 25 games with Royals last season. STATUS: Would have won roster spot, but late spring Braves/Padres trade closed roster opening and led to minors demotion.

 

 

Todd Coffey, 34, Braves - Best known for relief work with Reds/Brewers 2005-10, averaging 63 appearances annually with 4.08 ERA. 1.93, 11 saves in 37 games for AAA Tacoma (Mariners) last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Braves roster; released.

 

 

Phil Coke, 32, Cubs - Averaged 62 appearances for Yankees/Tigers 2009-14. 3.88, 1.53 WHIP in 62 games with Tigers last season. STATUS AND STATS: Won spot on Cubs roster.

 

 

Tyler Colvin, 29, Marlins - Outfielder was 20-homer hitter for 2010 Cubs and 18-homer hitter for 2012 Rockies. .223 in 57 games with Giants last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Marlins roster; released.

 

 

Kevin Correia, 34, Mariners - 46 wins 2009-12 with Padres and Pirates, 2011 All-Star. 7-17, 5.44 in 32 games (26 starts) with Twins/Dodgers last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Mariners roster, released; signed minor league contract with Giants.

 

 

Andy Dirks, 29, Blue Jays - Outfielder averaged 100 games and 325 at-bats for Tigers 2011-13; played 14 games in Tigers system last season after back surgery and subsequent hamstring injury. STATUS AND STATS: Still recovering from 2014 back surgery and held over in minors.

 

 

Scott Downs, 39, Indians - Longtime lefty reliever most notably with Blue Jays and Angels; averaged 62 appearances annually 2006-14. 4.97 in 55 games with White Sox and Royals last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Indians roster; released.

 

 

Scott Elbert, 29, Padres - Parts of past seven seasons in Dodgers bullpen; 2.32 ERA, 1.22 WHIP in 90 games 2011-12. Underwent Tommy John surgery in 2013. 2.08 in seven games with Dodgers last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Padres roster; demoted to minors.

 

 

Pedro Feliciano, 38, Cubs - Oft-used Mets lefty specialist 2007-11; averaged over 80 games per year in that stretch. Underwent rotator-cuff surgery in early 2012. Out of majors last season. 5.57 in 22 games with AAA Memphis (Cardinals) last season. STATUS AND STATS: Unable to unearth any information regarding his status; he did not pitch in Spring Training for Cubs or anyone else.

 

 

Jeff Francis, 34, Blue Jays - LHP best known as Rockies starter 2004-10 and 2012-13; 44 wins from 2005-07 and 71-80 lifetime. 5.85 in 12 games with Reds, Athletics and Yankees last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Blue Jays roster; demoted to minors.

 

 

Ben Francisco, 33, Diamondbacks - Situational outfielder for Indians/Phillies 2008-2011; well-traveled since. Averaged 109 games during that period; two 15-homer seasons. Out of majors last season; .242, 6, 27 in 57 games with IND Lancaster last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Diamondbacks roster; released.

 

 

Juan Francisco, 27, Rays - Journeyman corner infielder has 34 home runs in 635 AB over past two seasons. 375 K in 996 lifetime official at-bats. .220, 16, 43 in 106 games with Blue Jays last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Rays roster; refused demotion to minors and is free agent.

 

 

Jeff Francoeur, 31, Phillies - Best known for stints with Braves (2005-09) and Royals (2011-13); 137 home runs 2005-12 along with two 100+ RBI seasons and a 2007 Gold Glove. 2-for-24 in 10 games with Padres last season. STATUS AND STATS: Won spot on Phillies roster.

 

 

Chad Gaudin, 32, Dodgers - RHP for many teams since 2003; 45-44, 4.44 in 344 career games (87 starts). 11-game winner for 2007 Athletics. Did not pitch last season. STATUS AND STATS: On Dodgers disabled list; injured before roster decision was made.

 

 

Jeanmar Gomez, 27, Phillies - RHP posted 3.28 ERA in 78 appearances (eight starts) for 2013-14 Pirates. 3.19, 1.5 WHIP in 44 games last season. STATUS AND STATS: Won spot in Phillies bullpen.

 

 

Kevin Gregg, 37, Reds - Saved 175 games 2007-13 for four teams; 4.15 ERA in 583 career games. 10.00, 1.78 WHIP in 12 games with Marlins last season. STATUS AND STATS: Won spot in Reds' bullpen.

 

 

Tony Gwynn Jr.,32,  Nationals - Outfielder averaged 119 games for Padres/Dodgers 2009-12, batting .243 during that period. .152 in 80 games with Phillies last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Nationals roster; demoted to minors.

 

 

Jonathan Herrera, 30, Cubs - Best known as Rockies part-time infielder 2010-13; averaged about 90 games and 230 AB over that period, batting .268. .233 in 42 games with Red Sox last season. STATUS AND STATS: Won spot on Cubs roster.

 

 

Rich Hill, 35, Nationals - 11-game winner in 32 starts for 2007 Cubs; little since besides 63 apperances for 2013 Indians. Underwent Tommy John surgery in May 2011. 3.38 ERA, 2.44 WHIP (not a misprint) for Angels/Yankees last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Nationals roster, but signed to retention bonus and sent to minors.

 

 

Kelly Johnson, 33, Braves - Infielder best known for days with Braves 2005-09, and 2010 season with Diamondbacks (.284, 26, 71). .215, 7, 27 in 106 games with three teams last season. STATUS AND STATS: Won spot on Braves roster.

 

 

Gerald Laird, 35, Diamondbacks - Onetime starting catcher for Rangers and Tigers; most recently a solid backup for Braves. STATUS AND STATS: Won spot on Diamondbacks roster.

 

 

Ed Lucas, 33, Rangers - Infielder hit .255 in 163 games/530 at-bats with 2013-14 Marlins. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Rangers roster; demoted to minors.

 

 

Ryan Ludwick, 36, Rangers - Outfielder best known with Cardinals 2007-10; 2008 All-Star with 37 HR, 113 RBI. .275, 26, 80 in 2012 with Reds; underwent shoulder surgery in early 2013. .244, 9, 45 in 112 games with Reds last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Rangers roster; released.

 

 

Ryan Madson, 34, Royals - RH relief workhorse for Phillies 2004-11; 32 saves in 2011. Has pitched one professional game since following early 2012 Tommy John surgery. STATUS AND STATS: Won spot in Royals bullpen. 

 

 

Jason Marquis, 36, Reds - RH starter with 80 wins from 2004-09; 2009 All-Star. Best known with Braves/Cardinals/Cubs. Out of majors last season; spent 2014 in Phillies organization going combined 4-1 in nine starts. STATUS AND STATS: Won spot in Reds rotation.

 

 

Nick Masset, 33, Marlins - Righty RP appeared 231 times for Reds 2009-11; underwent shoulder capsule surgery in 2012. 5.80 in 51 games with Rockies last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Marlins roster; released.

 

 

Vin Mazzaro, Marlins - Washout starter with Athletics/Royals; 2.81 in 57 RA with 2013 Pirates. In AAA most of last season; 3.48 in 10.1 IP with Pirates. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Marlins roster; demoted to minors.

 

 

Ryan Mattheus, 31, Angels - Nationals righty reliever for parts of past four seasons; posted 2.85 ERA in 66 games in 2012. Most of last season in AAA; 1.04 in seven games with Nationals. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Angels roster; demoted to minors.

 

 

Evan Meek, 32, Nationals - Pirates reliever 2008-12; 2010 All-Star. Opted against surgery for torn pitching labrum in 2011, contributing to decline. 5.79 in 23 games with Orioles last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Nationals roster; demoted to minors.

 

 

Jose Mijares, 30, Reds - Lefty specialist mostly for Twins/Giants 2008-13; averaged 63 appearances with 3.33 ERA over that period. Did not pitch last season after failing to make Red Sox roster in spring. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Reds roster; released. Suspended 50 games for violating MiLB drug policy shortly after.

 

 

Leo Nunez (aka Juan C. Oviedo), 33, Rangers - Best known as Royals/Marlins closer 2009-11; out of majors for two years following identity issues and Tommy John surgery in 2012. 3.69 in 32 games with Rays last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Rangers roster; released.

 

 

Josh Outman, 30, Braves - LHP primarily with Athletics/Rockies since 2008; 4.43 in 161 career games (32 starts). 2.86, 1.41 WHIP in 40 games with Indians and Yankees last season. STATUS AND STATS: Placed on Braves disabled list.

 

 

Chris Parmelee, 27, Orioles - First baseman/outfielder with Twins 2011-14; .249, 24, 85 in 812 games over that period. .256, 7, 28 in 87 games last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Orioles roster; demoted to minors.

 

 

Brad Penny, 36, White Sox - RHP best known for 2000-08 seasons starting for Marlins and Dodgers; two-time All-Star and 16-game winner. Eight organizations (including Japan) since start of 2009; 121-101 lifetime. 2-1, 6.58 in eight games (4 GS) with Marlins last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make White Sox roster, but signed to retention bonus and sent to minors.

 

 

Chris Perez, 29, Brewers - Two-time All-Star closer for Indians 2011-12 (75 saves). 4.27, save in 49 games with Dodgers last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Brewers roster; released and re-signed to minors deal to avoid retention bonus.

 

 

Rafael Perez, 33,  Mariners - Mainstay in Indians bullpen 2007-11; topped 70 appearances thrice. Lost most of '12 with lat injury and relegated to AAA since. Combined 2.87 in 24 games (16 starts) for Mexican League, AAA Indianapolis (Pirates) and AAA Round Rock (Rangers). STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Mariners roster; demoted to minors and later loaned to Mexican League.

 

 

Nick Punto, 37, Diamondbacks - Best known for years as Twins utilityman 2004-10; averaged 400 AB annually 2005-09. .207 in 73 games with Athletics last season. STATUS AND STATS: Weeks after signing, decided to sit out the 2015 season (please follow that verification link; the article's close is priceless).

 

 

Humberto Quintero, 35, Red Sox - Longtime Astros backup catcher 2005-11; two hitless AB with Mariners last season (.290 in 74 games for AAA Tacoma). STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Red Sox roster; demoted to minors.

 

 

Clayton Richard, 31, Pirates - LHP was 14-game winner in both 2010 and 2012 for Padres; underwent separate shoulder surgeries in 2013 and 2014. 1-2, 5.91 ERA in four MiLB starts in Diamondbacks system last season. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Pirates roster; demoted to minors.

 

 

Shane Robinson, 30, Twins - Reserve outfielder for Cardinals 2009-14; .231 average in 268 career games. .150/.227/.200 in 47 games last season. STATUS AND STATS: Won spot on Twins roster.

 

 

Wandy Rodriguez, 36, Braves - Five-time double-digit winner for Astros/Pirates 2005-12; 14-game winner in '09. 0-2, 6.75 in six starts last season for Pirates before being released. STATUS AND STATS: Did not make Braves roster, released; signed minor-league deal with Rangers.

 

 

Johan Santana, 36, Blue Jays - Two-time Cy Young Award winner for Twins (2004, 2006); 128 career wins for Twins/Mets 2003-12. Injured last season (Achilles) STATUS: Did not pitch in spring due to injury rehab, but signed to retention bonus.

 

 

Sergio Santos, 32, Dodgers - Best known as 30-save closer for 2011 White Sox; little before or since. Underwent labrum surgery in 2012. 8.57 in 26 games for Blue Jays last season. STATUS: Did not make Dodgers roster, demoted to minors.

 

 

Nate Schierholtz, 31, Rangers - Member of 2010 World Champion Giants; 21 HR, 68 RBI for Cubs in 2013; .195 in 122 games with Cubs and Nationals last season. STATUS: Did not make Rangers roster; released. Signed with Japan league.

 

 

Scott Sizemore, 30, Marlins - 11 HR in 2011 with Athletics; dual ACL surgeries in 2012-13. Five hits in 16 AB with Yankees last season. STATUS: Did not make Marlins roster; demoted to minors.

 

 

Kevin Slowey, 30, Phillies - 35 wins for Twins 2008-10; only four since. 5.30, 1.67 WHIP in 17 games (2 GS) with Marlins last season. STATUS: Did not make Phillies roster; released.

 

 

Justin Smoak, 28, Blue Jays - Primary Mariners first baseman 2011-13; averaged 18 homers but hit .229 during that period. .202, 7 HR in 80 games with Mariners last season. STATUS: Won spot on Blue Jays roster.

 

 

Geovany Soto, 32, White Sox - Catcher was 2008 NL Rookie of the Year for Cubs; 79 homers with Cubs 2008-12; now a reserve. .250, HR in 24 games with Rangers and Athletics last season. STATUS: Won spot on White Sox roster.

 

 

Ian Stewart, 30, Nationals - Tthird baseman hit 53 HR for Rockies 2008-10; .176 in 24 games with Angels last season. STATUS: Did not make Nationals roster; demoted to minors.

 

 

Dan Uggla, 35, Nationals - Three-time All-Star second baseman for Marlins and Braves 2006-14; 233 lifetime homers but career in severe three-year decline. .149, 2 HR in 52 games for Braves/Giants last season. STATUS: Actually won spot on Nationals roster. (Sorry; he was really bad for my Giants)

 

 

Joe Thatcher, 33, Astros - Lefty specialist in Padres bullpen 2009-13; 3.86 in 53 games with Diamondbacks and Angels last season. STATUS: Won spot in Astros bullpen.

 

 

Jose Valverde, 37, Padres - Three-time league saves leader with Diamondbacks, Astros and Tigers; three-time All-Star with 288 career saves. Lost touch in late 2012 and bounced around since. 5.66 in 21 games with Mets last season. STATUS: Did not make Padres roster; released.

 

 

Jose Veras, 34, Braves - Journeyman reliever averaged 60 appearances 2008-14; saved 19 games pre-deadline with 2013 Astros. 4.50, 1.40 WHIP with Cubs/Astros last season. STATUS: Did not make Braves roster; released.

 

 

Dayan Viciedo, 25, Blue Jays - Regular outfielder  for White Sox 2010-14; 25-homer hitter in 2012. .231, 21, 58, .281 OBP last season. STATUS: Did not make Blue Jays roster; released.

 

 

Carlos Villanueva, 31, Cardinals - Swingman has 390 appearances for Brewers, Blue Jays and Cubs since 2006 (4.26 ERA, 1.292 WHIP). 5-7, 4.64 in 42 games (five starts) with Cubs last season. STATUS: Won spot on Cardinals roster.

 

 

Chien-Ming Wang, 35, Braves -  54-game winner for Yankees 2005-08 including two 19-win seasons; 39 MLB appearances and eight wins since. Underwent shoulder surgery in 2009 and missed 2010. 13-8, 4.13 for AAA Louisville/Charlotte (Reds/White Sox) last season. STATUS: Did not make Braves roster; demoted to minors.

 

 

Dontrelle Willis, 33, Brewers - LHP won 78 games with Marlins 2003-2007; NL Rookie of the Year in 2003. Has battled anxiety and severe command issues; no MLB appearances since 2011. STATUS: Opted to retire for second time.

 

 

Randy Wolf, 38, Blue Jays - LHP won 138  games with Phillies, Brewers and others since 1999. 1-3, 5.26 in six games (four starts) with Marlins last season. STATUS: Signed late in spring; currently in AAA.

 

 

Blake Wood, 29, Pirates - best known for 106 relief appearances for Royals 2010-11. Underwent Tommy John surgery in May 2012. 7.11 in seven games with Indians last season. STATUS: Did not make Pirates roster; demoted to minors.

 

 

Eric Young Jr,, 29, Braves - 2B/OF best known for 2009-13 stint with Rockies including a 2013 NL steals title—and for accidentally breaking Tim Hudson's ankle. .229/.299/.311 in 100 games with Mets last season. STATUS: Won spot on Braves' roster.

 

 

Barry Zito, 36, Athletics - LHP won 165 games from 2000-13 with Athletics and Giants. Sat out last season. STATUS: Did not make Athletics' roster; demoted to minors.

 

NRI15
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