The Atlanta Braves have released left-handed pitcher James Russell, according to Mark Bowman of MLB.com. Because of the release, Brady Feigl has a much larger possibility of starting the year in Atlanta's bullpen.
Also, because they released him now, the Braves only have to pay Russell $606,000 of the $2.425 million that he is owed.
The Braves acquired the lefty from the Chicago Cubs back on July 31, 2014. Atlanta received Russell and super-utility man Emilio Bonifacio in exchange for catcher Victor Cartatini, who went to Chicago.
Then, on January 15, the two parties avoided arbitration with a one-year, $2.425 million contract. It was the final time Russell was arbitration-eligible. It was a nice raise from his 2014 salary of $1.77 million.
Russell, who was drafted in the 14th round of the 2007 MLB Draft by the Cubs, had a rough few years in the majors before coming around in 2014. During that season, Russell pitched with both the Cubs and Braves. The southpaw played 44 games for Chicago and 22 games for Atlanta. He posted a 2.97 ERA with 42 strikeouts over 66 games and 57.2 innings pitched. Russell punched in a 1.127 WHIP and a 3.44 FIP. It was a bright season for the young pitcher.
During 2015 spring training, Russell pitched 7.2 innings over three games and struggled big time. He had a 10.57 ERA and gave up 10 hits and three walks. Three-of-10 hits went over the fence and Russell only struck out three hitters. His 1.696 WHIP was the worst of his career.
The 29-year-old young southpaw should catch on with a different team in no time. His spring training numbers do not compare to his overall talent. If the Braves would have given him some more time, the lefty would have come along nicely. Once Russell does find a new home, he should be on the Opening Day roster.