Rangers trade former closer Sam Dyson to Giants

The Rangers traded former closer Sam Dyson, along with cash, to the San Francisco Giants for a player to be named later or cash.

The Rangers subsidized part of the $2.3 million left on Dyson’s contract as part of the trade, which could translate into a better player in return later this season.

Dyson, 29, was designated for assignment after taking the loss May 31 against the Rays. He was 1-6 in 17 appearances and had allowed 20 earned runs in 16 2/3 innings. Dyson became the Rangers’ closer in May 2016 and collected 38 saves last season. He converted 40 of 45 save chances and had 22 holds for the Rangers in 2015 and ’16. He was dominant in March pitching for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, allowing one hit in a combined nine scoreless innings.

Rangers general manager Jon Daniels said multiple teams showed interest in Dyson but it came down to three teams.

“This wasn’t a typical DFA. While Sam struggled this year, he performed at a really high level the last couple of years and this spring,” Daniels said. “We knew going into it the interest would be greater. We were just looking for the best return.”

Frieri signed

The Rangers signed right-handed reliever Ernesto Frieri to a minor league contract and assigned him to Triple A Round Rock. He was 2-0 with seven saves and a 3.00 ERA in 21 innings for the Yankees’ Triple A club before opting out of his contract on Friday. He has appeared in 298 major league games, including 22 games with the Rays in 2015. He had 37 saves for the Angels in 2013.

“We’re looking to improve our options, whether that’s immediately at the major league level or upgrading the Triple A competition,” Daniels said. “He had a great stretch with the Angels and has been battling back from some issues. Had a good couple months with the Yankees. We thought it was a good chance to take.”

This story was originally published June 6, 2017 at 8:50 PM with the headline "Rangers trade former closer Sam Dyson to Giants."