Rangers’ Feliz refuses minor league assignment

Feliz refused a minor-league stay with Texas after being designated for assignment by Texas on July 3 to make room for lefthander Matt Harrison on the active roster.

Rangers’ reliever Neftali Feliz has decided to reject his outright assignment and become a free agent, according to a baseball source.

Greg Maroni, who represents Feliz, acknowledged the decision. If he signs with another club, the Rangers can subtract his new salary from what they owe.

ARLINGTON – Deposed Rangers closer Neftali Feliz took free agency and the money on Friday. “Maroni did not indicate what Feliz”™ next step will be.

Feliz, 27, has dealt with multiple injuries since emerging as one of the best closers in the American League during the Rangers’ World Series run in 2010. Manager Jeff Banister removed him from the role on May 17 after his third blown save in nine chances. That continued into the second World Series year of 2011, including beating the Tigers in six games in the ALCS, in which he saved 72 games in 81 chances through those two years. The Rangers moved him into the rotation in 2012, and he broke down.

Feliz has struggled to return to form since his Tommy John surgery in 2012, but assuming Martinez is correct, it’s a worthwhile gamble.

Fantasy Impact: It’s a sad ending to a once promising career – at least as far as the Rangers are concerned.