Texas Rangers transactions: Ricky Rodriguez activated and optioned, Eliezer Alvarez designated for assignment

Texas Rangers transactions: Ricky Rodriguez, Texas Rangers relief pitcher, has been activated from the 60 day disabled list and optioned to AAA Round Rock, the team announced today. To make room on the 40 man roster for Rodriguez, the Rangers have designated Eliezer Alvarez for assignment.

Rodriguez’s activation today was expected, as he has been on a rehab assignment for the maximum 30 days, and had to be taken off the disabled list today. He has made 8 appearances and thrown 8 shutout innings in his rehab stint. Rodriguez was originally placed on the disabled list this spring with biceps tendinitis.

Alvarez is someone who I think we expected to be DFA’d once the team needed a 40 man roster spot. A 23 year old who has played second base and all three outfield positions for Frisco this year, Alvarez had been claimed on waivers this spring from the St. Louis Cardinals. He has a .189/.279/.283 slash line for the Roughriders this year, and did spend one day in the majors when the Rangers needed a body for the bench, but did not get into a game for Texas.

The Rangers now have seven days to waive, trade or release Alvarez. I believe he has never been outrighted before, which means that, if he clears waivers, he can (if the Rangers choose) be outrighted to the minors and stay in the organization.