Indians designate Borowski for assignment

Last year's American League saves leader is in search of a new team.

Joe Borowski was designated for assignment by the Cleveland Indians on Friday after injury led to an ineffective start to his season.

Borowski, 37, led the American League in saves last season but attempted to play through a strained right triceps injury that was affecting the velocity of his pitches.

In five appearances prior to going on the disabled list on April 15, he went 0-2 with an 18.00 earned run average, allowing eight runs and seven hits in only four innings of work. He was 2-for-4 in save chances.

He continued to struggle after his return in late-May and after the right-hander blew his fourth save in 10 opportunities on Wednesday against the Chicago White Sox, the Indians made the move. In 18 appearances this season, Borowski went 1-3 with an ERA of 7.56.

Despite posting an ERA of 5.07 last season, Borowski earned 45 saves to lead the American League.

The Indians also designated right-hander Rick Bauer (0-0, 13.50 ERA) for assignment to make room for pitchers Jensen Lewis and Brian Slocum, who were called up from triple-A Buffalo on Friday.