Jason Rice Claimed By Indians

The Cleveland Indians have claimed right-handed pitcher Jason Rice off waivers from the Oakland Athletics, according to Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle. Rice posted a 3.69 ERA, 9.4 K/9, and a 4.4 BB/9 in over 85 innings of work for Triple-A Pawtucket. Joining his fourth organization since being drafted in 2005, Rice is still vying to make his big league debut.

Rice, 25, was acquired from the Red Sox in the Conor Jackson trade last week. The reliever was placed directly onto the major-league roster, yet never made an appearance for the Oakland Athletics. Essentially, A's general manager Billy Beane traded free-agent-to-be Conor Jackson, along with cash considerations, for a spot on the 40-man roster.

The Indians optioned Rice to Class Triple-A Columbus, and created a 40-man roster spot by transferring right-handed pitcher Carlos Carrasco to the 60-day disabled list. The 24-year-old Carrasco is scheduled for Tommy John surgery in the upcoming days.