Collin Balester DFA, Quintin Berry Called Up

After Tuesday’s 5-3 loss to Cleveland, the Tigers designated Collin Balester for assignment, and called up speedster Quintin Berry. The club could have optioned Luke Putkonen or placed Austin Jackson on the DL, yet they chose to DFA the reliever. Balester had a 6.5 ERA in 18 innings, and was scored upon in 9/11 appearances. Acquired for Ryan Perry in the offseason, the out of options Balester threw 13.2 solid innings in the spring, earning himself a bullpen spot. More than likely, Balester will end up in Toledo after his underwhelming appearance in Detroit.

Berry, 27, a journeyman minor leaguer who had never played above AA other than four games last season, will figure to be a defensive replacement and pinch runner for the Tigers. So far in Toledo, the outfielder has posted a .274/.365/.325 triple slash, with 19 steals in 38 games. Berry has 43 hits on the season, 35 singles and 8 doubles. He also has struck out at a 24.7% clip. Berry’s play bears resemblance to former Tiger Josh Anderson.