Josh

Roberson

Roberson lands in an ideal spot to compete for an Opening Day roster spot as the Padres should have several openings in their bullpen entering spring training. The 27-year-old righty was shipped to the Cubs from the Rays last August after struggling at Triple-A Durham. At a minimum, he’ll bolster San Diego’s organizational relief depth.

Roberson has struggled to a 4.50 ERA, 1.67 WHIP and 43/22 K/BB ratio across 36 innings (31 appearances) this season for Triple-A Durham. He’s a solid relief depth addition for the Cubs in exchange for a pair of older relievers that weren’t contributing this year.

Mark Feinsand of MLB.com adds that the Rays will also receive international bonus pool money as well. It’s a relatively minor move, but Tampa Bay manages to add a pair of relievers with big-league experience, who could presumably soak up some innings over the final two months of the regular season, if needed.

Following Sunday’s cuts, the Rays have 56 players in camp. None of the trio had a real shot to make the team. Roberson brings some impressive velocity, but his control continues to be a work in progress.

Roberson is the player to be named later to complete the trade that sent Louis Head to the Marlins last November. The 26-year-old righty has made just seven appearances (one start) this season between Single-A Jupiter and Double-A Pensacola. He’s a long-term lottery ticket for the Rays.