Justin Germano elects free agency

Right-hander Justin Germano, who was outrighted to Triple-A by the Chicago Cubs last week, has elected to become a free agent, reports Carrie Muskat of MLB.com:

Justin Germano, who was outrighted last week by the Cubs to Triple-A Iowa, has elected free agency.

The Cubs acquired Germano from the Boston Red Sox in July in exchange for cash considerations. He appeared in one game at the major league level for the Red Sox prior to the trade, allowing five hits and two walks with seven strikeouts over 5 2/3 scoreless innings.

Germano went on to appear in 13 games, including 12 starts, for the Cubs. He maintained an ERA of 6.75 with 6.3 strikeouts per nine and 2.7 walks per nine over 64 innings.

Germano also spent time with the Red Sox Triple-A affiliate in 2012. He appeared in 17 games, including 16 starts, spanning 105 innings. During his time in Triple-A the 30-year-old posted an ERA of 2.40.

Germano has spent parts of seven seasons at the major league level, with 48 of his 93 appearances having been starts. He owns a career ERA of 5.27.