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Cleveland Cuts Ties With Former Saves Leader Borowski

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The Associated Press

The Tampa Tribune

Published: July 5, 2008

CLEVELAND - CLEVELAND - Indians closer Joe Borowski, last year's American League saves leader, was designated for assignment on Friday.

The right-hander blew his fourth save in 10 chances on Wednesday against the Chicago White Sox, and was 1-3 with a 7.56 ERA in 18 games this season.

Borowski had 45 saves last season but has struggled since returning from an arm injury. He returned to the Indians in late May after being sidelined for about a month with a strained right triceps that caused him to lose velocity on his pitches.

General Manager Mark Shapiro said the club tried to give Borowski every chance but the reliever wasn't able to return to form.

BRAVES: Slumping outfielder Jeff Francoeur was sent to the minors to work on his hitting, with his average having dropped to .234.

Francoeur was booed at home Thursday night when he went 0-for-4. He hit .206 in June and is 1-for-12 in three games this month.

"It seems I can't catch a break, or when I feel I start to roll I just can't get things to keep rolling my way," Francoeur said.

The Braves hope Francoeur can relax at Double-A Mississippi and sharpen his mechanics. The plan is for Francoeur to rejoin the team following the All-Star break.

PIRATES: Pittsburgh designated pitcher Bryan Bullington for assignment Friday, a move that may end the former No. 1 draft pick's tenure with the organization without him winning a game in the majors.

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