Righty Tanner Roark clears waivers, becomes free agent

Right-hander Tanner Roark has cleared waivers and become a free agent, per Scott Mitchell of TSN. The Blue Jays designated Roark for assignment last week.

It’s no surprise that the 34-year-old Roark is heading to the open market, as there was no expectation he’d be traded or claimed because of his $12M salary. On the heels of solid seasons divided among the Nationals, Reds and Athletics, Roark signed a two-year, $24M deal with the Blue Jays going into 2020, but the move went south in a hurry for the club. Roark posted a 6.80 ERA in 47 2/3 innings last year, and despite the Jays’ injury troubles this season, he barely factored into their rotation. Roark tossed seven frames over three appearances (one start) and gave up five earned runs before the Jays cut the cord on him.

Roark boasted a respectable track record before signing with Toronto, so the likelihood is that he’ll find a different team soon. However, this trip to free agency won’t be nearly as lucrative as Roark’s previous one. He may have to settle for a minor league contract.