Red Sox Claim Relief Pitcher Robert Manuel Off Waivers

The Red Sox claimed right-handed pitcher Robert Manuel off waivers from Seattle on Monday, as announced by GM Theo Epstein.

The 26-year-old hurler made his major league debut with the Reds in 2009 and pitched 4 1/3 innings of scoreless relief over three games. He started the season with Cincinnati's Triple-A Louisville affiliate, posting a 2.70 ERA and a 3-4 record with 10 saves in 36 relief outings.

Manuel was traded to Seattle on July 29 in exchange for outfielder Wladimir Balentien and finished the season with Triple-A Tacoma, going 1-1 with four saves and a 3.32 ERA in 15 appearances. Manuel's .207 opponent batting average between Louisville and Tacoma was the eighth best among all Triple-A relievers.

Manuel was signed by the Mets as an undrafted free agent on June 17, 2005. In 169 minor league games, he has posted a 2.88 ERA with 19 saves and 339 strikeouts.