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In a somewhat surprising move, the Rays have DFA’d Nick Franklin, the utility player acquired from Seattle as part of the three-team David Price trade.
They have also announced that Daniel Robertson, Jumbo Diaz, Mallex Smith and Peter Bourjos will be breaking camp with the team.
INF/OF Nick Franklin has been designated for assignment.
— Tampa Bay Rays (@RaysBaseball) April 1, 2017
The following players will be placed on the #RaysOpeningDay roster:
— Tampa Bay Rays (@RaysBaseball) April 1, 2017
Bourjos
Díaz
Robertson
Smith pic.twitter.com/FUxj4f4nYN
#Rays Cash said decision came down to Robertson being able to provide better depth as SS than Franklin
— Marc Topkin (@TBTimes_Rays) April 1, 2017
If Franklin clears waivers he could still accept assignment to Durham. However, after finishing well last year and having a decent spring, there is a good chance he will be attractive to a few other teams.
They will still need to clear one more spot on the 40-man roster, so stay tuned for further announcements.