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Jered Weaver returns to Majors

Angels designate Jeff Weaver for assignment
June 30, 2006
ANAHEIM -- The Angels recalled Jered Weaver from Triple-A Salt Lake on Friday and designated his older brother, Jeff, for assignment to make room on the roster.

After signing a one-year, $8.325 million dollar deal in February, Jeff Weaver struggled to a 3-10 record. He is tied for the Major League lead in losses and owns a 6.29 ERA.

Weaver appeared as if he might turn his season around, though, after he produced five quality starts in six appearances since starting the year 1-7 with a 7.30 ERA. But that reformation took a major step back on Wednesday. In two-plus innings, he allowed six runs on nine hits as the Rockies pounded nearly every pitch he threw.

The Halos have 10 days to trade, release or send down Weaver. If the club can't make a deal and releases him, the Angels will have to pay the remaining money on his contract.

Jered Weaver, who was 4-0 with a 1.37 ERA for the Angels before being demoted two weeks ago, will start on Monday or Tuesday in Seattle. The rookie began his Major League career by not allowing a run in his first 13 1/3 innings and became the second Angel in history to win his first four starts.

Only Bo Belinsky, who won his first five starts in 1962, has done better.

Since rejoining Salt Lake, the starter tied a club record with 14 strikeouts on June 23 and went 2-0 in three appearances. All told, Weaver was 6-1 with two complete games and a 1.99 ERA for the Bees.

The club shopped Jeff Weaver earlier this season, but found little interest. Reports have surfaced, though, that the Dodgers -- whom Weaver pitched for last year -- are in need for a pitcher and might be willing to give their former starter another chance.

Greg Wagner is an associate reporter for MLB.com.