Clayton Richard has opted for free agency after he was outrighted off of the San Diego Padres 40-man roster. It appeared that the Padres would release Richard sooner or later so this simply gives the left hander a head start on free agency.
Richard, 30, appeared in 12 games for the Padres this season posting a 7.01 ERA and a 1.63 WHIP over 52 2/3 innings of work.
In July, Richard underwent season-ending to shave down part of his left clavicle. There were no AC joint damage to Richard’s shoulder which means he should be ready for spring training. He will have a chance to fill out the back end of someones rotation.