Royals release pitcher Gobble

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) - Left-handed reliever Jimmy Gobble was placed on waivers by the Kansas City Royals and is expected to be released Friday.

The 27-year-old pitcher has been in the organization since 1999 and was 22-23 with a 5.23 ERA in 235 career games. He debuted with the major league club in 2003.

Gobble was 0-2 with an 8.81 ERA and one save in 39 relief appearances last season. A stiff lower back forced him onto the disabled list from July to September, but he didn't allow a run in his final eight appearances after he returned.

The Royals also signed right-hander Anthony Lerew to a minor league contract and invited him to big league camp.

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Author: Fox Sports

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Added: March 19, 2009