:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/55538219/usa_today_9944361.0.jpg)
The Texas Rangers designated righthanded pitcher Eddie Gamboa for assignment last week in order to clear a 40 man roster spot for the then-newly-promoted Preston Claiborne.
Gamboa has cleared waivers, the team has announced, and has declined an outright assignment, opting for free agency.
The 32 year old knuckleballer was acquired from the Rays this past offseason, and was seen as being a potential bullpen candidate in camp. He ended up being sent to AAA Round Rock, where he put up a 6.49 ERA in 77.2 IP. He was passed over repeatedly when the Rangers needed pitching reinforcements at the major league level, and thus it would make sense that Gamboa would choose to test out the free agent market, rather than agree to stay in Round Rock.