BRADENTON — RHP David Carpenter, waived March 5 by the Braves, joined the Rays on Friday on a minor-league contract that included an invitation to major-league camp.
“It’s a little confusing on why he’s available, but we’ll take a chance on him,” manager Kevin Cash said. “We’re excited to bring him in.”
Carpenter, 30, has pitched for the Astros, Blue Jays, Yankees, Braves and Nationals during his five years in the big leagues. He is 11-11 with a 3.66 ERA in 218 relief appearances. He has 216 strikeouts in 2111⁄3 career innings.
“I’m very, very surprised by it,” Carpenter said of his quick exit from the Braves.