ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — All-Star closer Brad Boxberger will begin the season on the 15-day disabled list for the Tampa Bay Rays.
The move Saturday was expected. Boxberger is recovering from groin surgery after being injured during spring training.
Right-hander Alex Cobb, who missed last season after undergoing Tommy John surgery, was also placed on the 15-day DL. The Rays put right-hander Chase Whitley (elbow surgery) on the 60-day DL in February.
In other moves Saturday, outfielder Mike Mahtook and right-hander RH Andrew Bellatti were optioned to Triple-A Durham. The Rays also purchased the contract of left-handed reliever Dana Eveland.
Meanwhile, first baseman James Loney has been told he won't make the opening day roster. President of baseball operations Matt Silverman said his status will be determined by noon Sunday, hours before the Rays start the season against the Toronto Blue Jays.
