Rays Release Dirk Hayhurst

The Tampa Bay Rays have released right-handed pitcher/author Dirk Hayhurst from the organization, according to Adam Sobsey of the Independent Weekly. The reliever confirmed the release via Twitter with this tweet:

August 29th, 2011. The first time I was released as a professional baseball player. Thanks fo the opportunity Tampa, best of luck.

Hayhurst was playing for Class Triple-A Durham, but had been on the disabled list since July 15 with a sore right elbow.

Dirk Hayhurst isn't your typical pitcher, or even baseball player for that matter. In his off time, Hayhurst decided to write a book, The Bullpen Gospels, which is regarded as one of the best baseball books ever written. 

Hayhurst, 30, signed with the Rays on a minor league deal, and never made it to the majors for the Rays. Hayhurst posted a 4.12 ERA, 6.6 K/9, and a 3.2 BB/9 in 59 innings with Triple-A Durham this season.