The St. Louis Cardinals on Monday requested unconditional release waivers on right-hander Luke Gregerson in a move that means they will recoup very little on their $11 million investment in the veteran reliever.
The Cardinals signed Gregerson to a two-year deal before the 2018 season, but he pitched just 12 2/3 innings last season because of hamstring and shoulder issues.
After posting a 7.11 ERA last year, the 35-year-old had a 7.94 mark in six appearances this year in a delayed start to the season because of lingering shoulder trouble. He was designated for assignment Friday.
The Cardinals still owe Gregerson more than $3 million in salary this season, plus a $1 million buyout for next year, increasing the likelihood that he will clear waivers and become a free agent. At that point, a new team can sign him for the prorated league minimum.
Gregerson, 35, has 646 career relief appearances and a 3.15 ERA over 11 seasons with the San Diego Padres (2009-13), Oakland Athletics (2014), Houston Astros (2015-17) and St. Louis Cardinals, with his best season coming in 2015 when he had 31 saves for the Astros. He had a 2.12 ERA of the A’s in 72 appearances in 2014.