He made one final appearance for the Rangers on July 3 before being designated for assignment.
Advertisement
Greg Maroni, who represents Feliz, acknowledged the decision. As a five-year veteran, he had the right to refuse a minor league assignment. He started this season as the Rangers’ primary closer, going 6-for-9 in save opportunities, but Feliz had a 5.09 ERA over his first 17 appearances and then went on the disabled list with a side injury in May. If Feliz signs with another club, the Rangers will subtract his base salary from their obligation.
That Feliz would walk away from that money suggests his agent has already arranged another job. Maroni did not say what Feliz’ next step will be, but there is expected to be substantial interest.
Feliz has one more year of arbitration remaining so if all goes well and Feliz makes it through the season with the Tigers, they would have him under their control for at least another year. He came back strong in 2014, recording 13 saves in 14 chances, but had his struggles this season.
Advertisement
OCTOBER 22: Bengie Molina #11 and Neftali Feliz #30 of the Texas Rangers celebrate after defeating the New York Yankees 6-1 in Game Six of the ALCS to advance to the World Series during the 2010 Major League Baseball Playoffs at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington on October 22, 2010 in Arlington, Texas. Tommy John surgery set his career back and he’s been trying to regain his previous form ever since. The biggest concern for the Rangers was inconsistent velocity.
