Brewers release former all-star closer Chris Perez

Chris Perez's bid to recapture his form as an All-Star closer may still come true, but it won't happen in Milwaukee.

The Brewers released the two-time all-star Sunday, a month after signing the 29-year-old right-hander, nicknamed “Pure Rage,” to a minor-league deal. He pitched well this spring, with a 2.70 ERA in 10 games, but the Brewers wanted to send him to the minors. Perez told the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel that is not an option.

"That's not my first choice," Perez said. "I think we would want to look around. I'm healthy; I'm throwing the ball well. I have a pretty good track record. I know I belong up here and can get outs up here."

Perez enjoyed a great four-year run as the Indians closer, averaging 31 saves from 2010-2013 and making All-Star appearances in 2011 and 2012. But his 2013 season ended on a sour note, with a rash of blown saves, and an arrest for marijuana possession. Perez who had roughly a third of a pound of marijuana delivered to his house — addressed to his dog — pleaded no contest to the charges and received one year of probation.

The Indians released Perez after the 2013 season. Joining the Dodgers for 2014, he posted a 4.27 ERA with one save in 49 appearances.


(cbssports.com)