Nathan Karns will become the Tampa Bay Rays' new depth piece in the bullpen.
On Sunday morning, the team promoted the right-hander, who was acquired in a four-player trade with the Washington Nationals last February. The Rays also designated right-hander Heath Bell for assignment.
Karns, 26, allowed no runs and four hits in 6 1/3 innings in spring training with Tampa Bay. He was 2-2 with an 8.20 ERA in 26 1/3 innings with Triple-A Durham after he was optioned to the Bulls on March 13.
Bell, a three-time All-Star, was acquired last December in a three-team trade between the Rays, Arizona Diamondbacks and Cincinnati Reds. The 36-year-old had a 7.27 ERA with 12 strikeouts in 17 1/3 innings this season.
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