After optioning Dominguez, Rays call up lefty Teaford
Tampa swaps pitchers, designates Dykstra for assignment
ST. PETERSBURG -- After the Rays optioned right-hander Jose Dominguez to Triple-A Durham on Friday night, they called up left-hander Everett Teaford on Saturday. In addition, first baseman Allan Dykstra was designated for assignment.
"Everett, he had a really nice spring for us," Rays manager Kevin Cash said. "Did a couple of different things for us. He started. Got built up. Showed the capability of dropping down against left-handed hitters. ... We're excited to have him."
Teaford had been scheduled to start for the Bulls Saturday night and told reporters he's "been throwing the ball well."
Teaford said he was happy to have any opportunity.
"Who knows how long I'm here for," Teaford said. "It could be a day. I'm hoping it's through the end of the season, but whatever they need, I'm happy to hop on a plane and help."
When the Rays activated Drew Smyly and James Loney from the disabled list on Friday the number of players on the DL went from 12 to 10. Nevertheless, the injuries have created plenty of opportunities for players like Teaford.
"Somebody has to fill the 25 spots, I guess," Teaford said. "... Like I told [Rays president of baseball operations Matt] Silverman and Cash, whatever they need. Whether it's drive the bus, fly the plane, cook the bagel bites, whatever, I'll do it."
Cash complimented Dominguez and Dykstra.
"Sent out Jose last night," Cash said. "Did a really nice job for us. Got to see much more [of him pitching] than what we got to see in Spring Training. ... Most impressive he came in and threw strikes every time he got the ball. And usually when you see young guys with those power arms, you're never quite sure what you're going to get. We have a lot of confidence. I'm sure he's going to help us out throughout the course of the year."
As for Dykstra...
"Any time [you have] roster moves, those are unfortunate," Cash said. "Dykstra, the hits that he got were pretty pivotal in big parts of our games. Hopefully, whatever's best for him, if he gets claimed. If he does not, we'd love to have him also."