The Tampa Bay Rays have exercised their $2.5 million option on veteran reliever Joel Peralta.
Peralta, 38, posted a 3-4 record with a 4.41 ERA in 69 appearances (63 1/3 innings) during the most recent season. He allowed 31 earned runs, 60 hits and he struck out 74. He also earned 18 holds and one save.
The year can be considered a decline for him. His ERA was the worst since he posted a 6.20 in 27 appearances as part of the Colorado Rockies in 2009. A former set-up man, his holds dropped from a career-best 41 in 2013 after Brad Boxberger and Jake McGee asserted themselves as dependable late-inning options. Peralta's inning total also was the smallest in his four seasons with the Rays.
Still, former manager Joe Maddon praised Peralta for his mentor-like qualities in relationships with young Latin players. Peralta's presence means a face of stability within the Rays' bullpen. Since 2011, Peralta leads all major-league pitchers with 296 appearances.
''Joel has accomplished a lot in a Rays uniform, and we are excited to welcome him back for a fifth season,'' Erik Neander, Tampa Bay's vice president of baseball operations, said in a statement. ''He's a fiery competitor, a model teammate and a leader in the clubhouse.''
In other news, the Rays reinstated left-hander Matt Moore, who had Tommy John surgery, from the 60-day disabled list. In addition, they designated for assignment infielder Vince Belnome to make room on the 40-man roster. Infielder/outfielder Jerry Sands, who had left wrist surgery, was reinstated from the 60-day DL and then designated for assignment.
You can follow Andrew Astleford on Twitter @aastleford or email him at aastleford@gmail.com.
