As expected, the Texas Rangers weren't able to sneak outfielder Julio Borbon through waivers.
Borbon announced the news himself on Twitter with the following tweet:
Borbon, who was designated for assignment last week, was claimed by the Chicago Cubs Friday. The Rangers put Borbon on waivers Wednesday.
Texas was hoping to get Borbon through waivers so they could outright him to Round Rock. Texas had tried to trade Borbon since they designated him last week but were unable to get a deal done. The Cubs have to pay the Rangers $20,000 for Borbon.
Borbon, a supplemental pick in the 2007 draft, was the Opening Day centerfielder for the Rangers in 2010 and 2011. He spent all of last year in the minors but made the Opening Day roster this year. The club spent the early part of the season trying to deal Borbon, who was out of options. They then had to clear a roster spot for starter Nick Tepesch, which led to them designated Borbon.
The Cubs designated infielder Alberto Gonzalez for assignment to clear a roster spot for Borbon.
The Rangers made a waiver claim of their own Friday, adding left-hander Charlie Leesman on release waivers from the Chicago White Sox. Leesman has five days to accept or decline the move or become a free agent.
Leesman had ACL surgery last fall. If he accepts the claim, he'd be added to the Texas 40-man roster. The Rangers have 39 players on the 40-man roster right now.
