Grant Balfour

Following a disastrous outing against the Yankees on April 18, reliever Grant Balfour was designated for assignment by the Rays. He was granted his release several days ago, as the Rays chose to eat his $7 million salary for the 2015 season. The Rays have signed the 37-year-old Balfour again, this time to a minor league deal. He is expected to report to Triple-A Durham.

Fantasy Impact

With a decreasing fastball over the last two years and an ERA of 4.91 last year there seems to be no way that Balfour will make another MLB stint in his career. In my view, this seems like a pitcher who isn't ready to hang it up just yet but could possibly mentor young arms develop down in Triple-A.

RP Grant Balfour made his first spring training game appearance today, allowing one run and one hit in an inning.

Fantasy Impact

Balfour is playing catch up to the rest of the bullpen due to his time away. It is likely that Brad Boxberger will get most of the save chances while injured Jake McGee is out, but Balfour may have few a opportunities.