Red Sox designate reliever Mujica for assignment

BOSTON -- The Red Sox thought Edward Mujica could be a big addition to their bullpen when they signed him as a free agent, but he never got into a sustained groove. The club designated the righty for assignment on Friday and called up Travis Shaw from Triple-A Pawtucket.

Mujica, who had closing experience with the Cardinals, came to Boston as a setup man. Of late, Mujica had been pitching in low-leverage situations.

The Red Sox signed the righty to a two-year, $9.5 million contract in December 2013. If nobody claims Mujica off waivers, Boston will likely have to pay the balance of the contract.

Mujica pitched in 11 games this season, notching a 4.61 ERA. Last year, he had an ERA of 3.90 ERA, giving up 69 hits over 60 innings.