March 2, 2012; Dunedin, FL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher

The Cleveland Indians have claimed right-handed reliever Rick VandenHurk off waivers from the Blue Jays, according to MLB Trade Rumors. He was signed by the Jays in February after being released by the Orioles.

The 6-foot-5 native of Eindhoven, Netherlands spent most of last season pitching for the Norfolk Tides, the Orioles’ Triple-A club. There he tossed over 150 innings and went 9-13 with a 4.43 ERA while also earning a major league call-up, appearing in four games.

Despite making a total of 28 starts last season, the 26-year-old was competing for a spot in the Jays’ crowded bullpen and was ultimately expendable. He didn’t have the strongest spring, as he allowed at least one earned run in each of his five outings and finished with a 9.95 ERA in 6 1/3 innings, including six walks.

- JM

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