Adam

Russell

He’ll also get an invite to spring training. Russell, 28, posted a 3.03 ERA and 13/20 K/BB ratio over 32 2/3 innings with the Rays this season. He could be a sleeper candidate to make Atlanta’s Opening Day bullpen.

Russell, 28, held a 7.28 ERA in 38 1/3 innings for their Triple-A affiliate. He’ll try to latch on elsewhere for the rest of the season.

The Orioles have yet to confirm, but Russell announced the signing on his Facebook page. It’s presumably a minor league deal. The 29-year-old right-hander pitched exclusively in the minors last season between the Braves and Angels. He had a 3.03 ERA and 13/20 K/BB ratio over 32 2/3 innings with the Rays in 2011.

Russell had a rough 7.02 ERA in 50 innings this past season between Double-A and Triple-A. He’s doubtful to win a spot in the Orioles’ Opening Day bullpen.

Russell was optioned to Triple-A Portland in mid-April despite starting the season with 4 1/3 scoreless frames. He will provide bullpen depth for a short time with Kevin Correia on the bereavement list.

As expected, he’ll take the place of Kevin Correia on the roster. Russell tossed 4 1/3 scoreless innings with the Padres last month, but owns a 9.00 ERA over 10 relief appearances at Triple-A this season.

Russell has been up and down a few times this year as an emergency reliever. He’s tossed 4 1/3 scoreless innings, but the Padres obviously don’t think that success is sustainable. So it’s back to Triple-A.

This will be Russell’s third trip from Portland to San Diego, and it’s only May 20. He’s tossed 4 1/3 scoreless inning this year in the big leagues.

Russell announced the news on his personal Twitter feed Thursday morning. The 30-year-old right-hander had a promising 2.37 ERA in 60 2/3 innings this past season for the Orioles’ Triple-A affiliate in Norfolk and will try to make the Diamondbacks bullpen next spring.

Russell posted a 4.33 ERA, 1.64 WHIP, and 34/19 K/BB ratio in 35 1/3 innings at Triple-A Louisville. The 31-year-old hasn’t pitched in a major league game since 2011.