The Tampa Bay Rays today decided not to pick up the 2011 options on relief pitcher Dan Wheeler and utilityman Willie Aybar.
Wheeler was due to make $4 million next season, received a $1 million buyout and is now a free agent. Aybar was due to make $2.2 million in 2011, received a $275,000 buyout, remains under the team’s control and is arbitration eligible.
In addition, the Rays purchased the contract of switch-hitting infielder Elliott Johnson and added him to the 40 man roster.
TAMPA BAY RAYS FREE AGENTS
Grant Balfour (A)
Carl Crawford (A)
Rafael Soriano (A)
Dan Wheeler (A)
Joaquin Benoit (B)
Randy Choate (B)
Carlos Peña (B)
Rocco Baldelli
Brad Hawpe
Gabe Kapler
Chad QuallsA = Type ‘A’ Free Agent: Rated in the top 20% at his position by Elias Sports Bureau.
B = Type ‘B’ Free Agent: Rated between top 21% and 40% at his position by Elias Sports Bureau.