Phillies Claim Shaffer, Release Klein, Designate Rollins

The Phillies added that bat that could fit at many positions on Wednesday afternoon.  The Phillies announced that the team claimed Richie Shaffer on waivers from the Seattle Mariners.  To make room on the roster for Shaffer, the Phillies released pitcher Phil Klein.

The Mariners acquired Shaffer in a trade from the Tampa Bay Rays just last month.  After a trade with the San Francisco Giants, the Mariners needed the roster spot and designated Shaffer for assignment.   While the Mariners may have hoped he would clear waivers, the Phillies claimed him.

Shaffer is a right-handed hitter who has seen time in the Majors at first base, third base, left field, and right field.    Shaffer was a first round pick of the Tampa Bay Rays in 2012.  Shaffer peaked at Triple-A Durham in 2015 with a .937 OPS before getting promoted to the Major Leagues that August.   In 122 Major League at bats, Shaffer has batted .213 with five home runs and 10 runs batted in.

Shaffer is a good risk for the Phillies, because he has minor league options remaining.  If the Phillies wish to send him to the minor leagues they may.

As for Klein, he was freed to play baseball in Asia, though his exact destination is unknown.  Klein was claimed on waivers from the Texas Rangers during the 2016 season.  Klein made two starts and pitched in four games total.  In 19 1/3 innings, Klein had no record and an 8.84 earned run average.

Additionally, the Phillies designated for assignment the contract of David Rollins.  Rollins has traveled from the Seattle Mariners to the Chicago Cubs to the Texas Rangers to the Phillies this offseason.  Rollins could clear waivers and the Phillies retain him.   However, a fifth team may take their turn this offseason.