Angels claim 4.53 ERA rookie reliever from Red Sox after trade deadline

The Los Angeles Angels, at the bottom of the American League standings, added bullpen depth on Friday. 

According to an announcement from the AL West club, right-hander Ryan Watson was claimed off waivers from the Boston Red Sox. 

Boston designated the 28-year-old rookie for assignment earlier this week. 

The Angels had three open 40-man roster spots after the trade deadline. Watson will be added to the active roster. 

Angels add Watson to roster

The Red Sox acquired Watson from the Athletics following the Rule 5 Draft. He posted a 4.53 ERA and struck out a modest 17.9% of the batters he faced in 55.2 innings. 

Boston's acquisition of reliever Erik Miller from the San Francisco Giants for former top prospect Marcelo Mayer bumped him off the roster. 

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At the deadline, the Angels traded three relievers: Kirby Yates, Brent Suter, and Ryan Zeferjahn. 

A few years ago, Watson made a transition from a starter pitcher to the bullpen in the minors. Watson's integration into the Angels' bullpen will help them replenish some of the depth they lost.  

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