Red Sox claim RHP Sandy Rosario; Lin designated for assignment

The Red Sox announced that they have claimed right-handed relief pitcher Sandy Rosario (pictured) off waivers from the Miami Marlins. To made room for Rosario on the 40-man roster, the Red Sox have designated outfielder Che-Hsuan Lin for assignment. 

Rosario, 27, has gotten cups of coffee after September call-ups in each of the last three seasons. Over those three seasons, he has appeared in ten games, all in relief, allowing 13 runs in 7.2 innings pitched. Originally signed in 2006 by the Marlins as a starting pitcher, Rosario was moved to the bullpen full time in 2010. The move proved effective, as he saw his strikeout rate increase, and he moved up the minor league ranks quickly. Making 32 relief appearances at Triple-A New Orleans the past two seasons, Rosario has compiled a 1.65 ERA in 32.2 innings, striking out 28 and walking 7. He will compete for a spot in the bullpen in spring training, but with one option remaining, Pawtucket seems the likely destination to begin the 2013 season.

Lin was designated for assignment in the corresponding move. Added to the 40-man roster last offseason, Lin had two stints with the major league club in 2012, going 3 for 12 in nine games. Long known as a stellar defensive player, the offensive skills have not yet caught up for the 24-year old, as he hit .247/.323/.316 at Triple-A Pawtucket.

In another roster move, the Red Sox announced the release of infielder James Kang. A 45th-round draft choice in 2010 out of Pitzer College in Claremont, CA, Kang spent all of the 2012 season at High A Salem, where he hit .190/.276/.276 in 135 plate appearances. A strong defender, Kang played second, third, short, and even some left field this season off the Salem bench.

Photo credit: Sandy Rosario by Kelly O'Connor

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