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LOS ANGELES -- The Dodgers on Thursday granted relief pitcher David Aardsma his release rather than add him to the active roster.
The right-hander had an opt-out clause in his minor league contract that allowed him to become a free agent if the Dodgers didn't call him up to the major leagues.
Aardsma was 0-1 with a 2.41 ERA in 20 games for OKC, with 15 saves in 15 chances. The right-hander struck out 23 and walked seven in his 18⅔ innings. He last pitched on Tuesday night, a scoreless inning with two strikeouts against Sacramento, his seventh consecutive scoreless appearance.
The move as at the very least somewhat curious by the Dodgers considering the large amount of roster turnover they have had this season. There have been 14 different pitchers to pitch in relief for the Dodgers this season, including four who were added to the 40-man roster since the season began.
Aardsma sent out a few tweets Wednesday and Thursday, confirming his status.
Bags are packed, just waiting to hear if I have anywhere to go.... #havearmwilltravel pic.twitter.com/s0Ylp3Dmmu
— David Aardsma (@TheDA53) June 4, 2015
Well, I'm home with nothing to do. If anyone has any jobs let me know. Great at party's, good with kids, awesome wingman #havearmwilltravel
— David Aardsma (@TheDA53) June 5, 2015
Even with Wednesday night's implosion fresh in the minds of many, the Dodgers bullpen ranks fourth in the National League in ERA (3.09), FIP (2.75), strikeout rate (27.1%) and K-BB% (18.3%), second in strikeouts (173), xFIP (3.30) and strikeout-to-walk ratio (3.09).