Padres Sign Ross Ohlendorf; Designate Matt Palmer

The San Diego Padres have signed right-hander Ross Ohlendorf to a major league contract, according to Corey Brockof MLB.com. Ohlendorf opted out of his minor league deal with the Boston Red Sox on June 1 and became a free agent. In order to make room for Ohlendorf on their roster, the Padres designated right-hander Matt Palmer for assignment.

After being released by the Pittsburgh Pirates last December, Ohlendorf signed a minor league deal with the Red Sox in February. Ohlendorf’s deal included an opt-out clause which the 29-year-old decided to exercise on June 1.

Prior to opting out of his deal with the Red Sox, Ohlendorf started 10 games for Boston’s Triple-A affiliate. Over his 52 2/3 innings pitched, Ohlendorf maintained an ERA and WHIP of 4.61 and 1.367 with 6.3 SO/9 and 2.6 BB/9.

Ohlendorf started nine games for the Pirates in 2011, but he struggled to the tune of an 8.15 ERA and 1.940 WHIP. Over his five seasons at the major league level, Ohlendorf has a career ERA and WHIP of 4.77 and 1.444.