Sorry Charlie

Lot’s of reasons are given when a player like Charlie Zinc slips away with dfa. He is “too old” of a prospect is the usual. Other statements: [...]

Vazquez claimed by Padres, Day by Rays

The San Diego Padres claimed starting pitcher Virgil Vazquez, 26, off waivers fromt he Red Sox today. Vazquez pitched 16.2 innings for the Detroit Tigers in 2007, amassing a 8.97 ERA in five games, three of them starts.The Red Sox had claimed Vazquez off waivers from the Tigers in October. The depth chart is updated.

UPDATE: Reliever Dewon Day was also claimed off waivers, this time by the Tampa Bay Rays. Day was claimed off waivers from the Chicago White Sox in October. He got lit up in 12 innings at the big league level in 2007. He has decent stuff but poor command.

Charlie Zink designated for assignment

Charlie Zink, the knuckleballer signed in 2002 after a recommendation from Luis Tiant, has been designated for assignment by the Boston Red Sox. Zink, who won 34 games over the past four seasons for Pawtucket and Portland, had his major league debut in 2008, giving up eight earned runs in just four and third innings.

It has long been speculated that Zink, 28, would be in the starting rotation for most teams and was only held back in Boston by Tim Wakefield. Not even Bernie Madoff could talk Boston’s front office into start two knuckleballers in the rotation. Fire Brand wishes Zink the best, and hopes he gets an opportunity to prove himself with another team very soon. Preferably outside the AL East.

Sox sign Kotsay; Best depth ever?

According to the Boston Herald, the Boston Red Sox have signed Mark Kotsay to a one year, $1.5 million dollar deal plus incentives. Kotsay, who finished last season with the club but left as a free agent, was unable to find a starting job so decided to return to Boston. he will back-up Kevin Youkilis at first base, and also play the position when Youkilis relieves Mike Lowell. Kotsay is also insurance should recently signed fourth-outfielder Rocco Baldelli struggle with fatgiue or injuries this season.