ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays have claimed right-hander Chase Whitley off waivers from the Yankees.
Whitley went 1-2 with a 4.19 ERA in four starts for the Yankees last season before having season-ending Tommy John surgery.
Because Whitley's surgery took place in May, he would not be able to start the season on the Rays' roster. If he makes it through the offseason on the Rays' 40-man roster, he would likely begin the season on the 60-day disabled list, which frees up a spot on the 40-man roster.
Once healthy, Whitley would add to the Rays' starting-pitching depth.