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Update 6:05 PM EST: Roberts has told reporters (including Steve Gilbert of MLB.com) a trade is on the one-yard line.
#Dbacks Ryan Roberts says he was told a trade is on the one yard line.
— Steve Gilbert (@SteveGilbertMLB) July 24, 2012
Original Story: The Arizona Diamondbacks have designated third baseman Ryan Roberts for assignment, opening up a roster spot for the D'Backs to reinstate infielder John McDonald from the disabled list, the team announced today.
ROSTER MOVE: D-backs have designated @RRoberts14 for assignment and reinstated INF John McDonald from the disabled list.
— Arizona Diamondbacks (@Dbacks) July 24, 2012
The D'Backs will look for a team to take on Roberts via trade and get something in return, even if it's just salary relief. A team with a low waiver priority could make a trade with the D'Backs and take a flyer on Roberts. We know the Tampa Bay Rays have interest in the third baseman as a stopgap.
The 31-year-old is hitting just .250/.306/.357 with 6 home runs over 280 plate appearances this season. Roberts is owed less than $1 million for the remainder of this season and is arbitration eligible for next season, but he would be a non-tender candidate.