Rays purchase contract of Sizemore from Class A

Grady-Sizemore;-Tampa-Bay-Rays

Grady Sizemore signed a minor league contract with the Tampa Bay Rays. (AP)

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The Tampa Bay Rays have purchased the contract of three-time All-Star Grady Sizemore from Class A Charlotte.

Sizemore, released by Philadelphia on June 1, signed with the Rays two weeks later. He spent the past week playing for Charlotte.

The 32-year old outfielder joined the Rays on Sunday and was the designated hitter against Boston. He has a .265 batting average in 10 major league seasons.

“We’re going to face a string of right-handed pitching here these upcoming games, and hopefully he can provide a little boost in our lineup,” Tampa Bay manager Kevin Cash said.

Cash said Sizemore will primarily DH, but could get playing time in the outfield.

Rookie Matt Andriese, who allowed one hit over six innings in Saturday’s 4-1 win over the Red Sox, was optioned to Triple-A Durham. Outfielder Desmond Jennings, out with a left knee injury, was transferred from the 15- to the 60-day disabled list.

Andriese’s departure opens a rotation spot that Matt Moore, who is coming back from elbow ligament replacement surgery, is expected to fill. Cash said Moore will probably get into the rotation for Thursday’s game against Cleveland.

Jake Odorizzi, on the 15-day disabled list with a left oblique strain, threw 51 pitches in batting practice Saturday, and said he will make a minor league rehab start Thursday for Charlotte.

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