What does 'DFA' mean in baseball? It's not an endearing abbreviation.

Albert Pujols . David Ortiz. Alex Rodriguez. Manny Ramirez. Nelson Cruz. Robinson Cano. Justin Upton.

Ortiz is enshrined in the Baseball Hall of Fame. Pujols is a lock for the Hall. Cruz is a future candidate for Cooperstown. And all were former major league All-Stars.

What do they all have in common?

Each of them have been DFA'd during their major league baseball career.

Ultimately, it means the player is cut from a team. It's one of several transactions that can happen to an MLB player. But it's a more common process for players who are in the latter years of their career and in the middle of a contract.

HOT STOVE UPDATES: MLB free agency: Ranking and tracking the top players available.

What does DFA mean in baseball?

Designated for assignment.

It's one of the more unique transaction types in baseball, where unlike being traded, the player is optioned to the minor leagues or simply cut from the roster.

What does being designated for assignment mean?

Teams are allowed to have 40 players on their roster, with 26 of them active on the major league roster. Over the course of the season, teams make roster moves, which sometimes involves cutting a player. In order to take someone off the 40-man roster, they must be designated for assignment.

MLB.com explains the process: "When a player's contract is designated for assignment — often abbreviated "DFA" — that player is immediately removed from his club's 40-man roster. Within seven days of the transaction (had been 10 days under the 2012-16 Collective Bargaining Agreement), the player can either be traded or placed on irrevocable outright waivers."

Can another team claim a DFA'd player?

Yes, any team can pick up a player off waivers. However, if that team claims the player, they would have to add the player to their 40-man roster.

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The Designated for Assignment (DFA) Process in Major League Baseball: Implications, Procedures, and Examples

designated for assignment process

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designated for assignment process

What does it mean to be designated for assignment?

To be designated for assignment in baseball means that a player has been removed from his team’s 40-man roster. This move is typically made when a team wants to make room for another player, or if the player’s performance has been disappointing or if he has become injured. Once a player is designated for assignment, the team has 7 days to trade him, release him, or place him on waivers. During this time, other teams have the opportunity to claim the player off waivers and assume his contract. If the player clears waivers, he can be assigned to the team’s minor league system or remain on the 40-man roster. Being designated for assignment can be a difficult and uncertain time for a player, as it often means he is at risk of losing his spot on the team and potentially even his career.

Why do teams designate players for assignment?

Teams designate players for assignment for a variety of reasons. The most common reason is to clear a roster spot for another player, either from their own minor league system or via a trade or free agent signing. Another reason could be due to a player’s poor performance, as a team may want to remove them from the active roster and give another player a chance to contribute. In some cases, a player may be designated for assignment if they become injured and the team needs to free up a roster spot for a healthy player. Finally, a team may designate a player for assignment if they are looking to trade the player and want to remove them from the active roster while negotiations are taking place. Regardless of the reason, being designated for assignment can be a difficult and uncertain time for a player, as their future with the team and in baseball is put into question.

What happens to a player who is designated for assignment?

When a player is designated for assignment, he is immediately removed from the team’s active roster and placed on the 40-man roster’s “designated for assignment” list. The team then has 7 days to make a decision on the player’s future. During this time, the team can trade the player, release him, or place him on waivers. If the player clears waivers, the team can choose to assign him to their minor league system or keep him on the 40-man roster. If another team claims the player off waivers, they assume the player’s contract and roster spot.

For the player who has been designated for assignment, this can be a stressful and uncertain time, as their future with the team and in baseball is up in the air. They may be traded to another team, released and become a free agent, or sent to the minors, where they will need to work their way back up to the majors. The DFA process can have a significant impact on a player’s career and earning potential, as well as their confidence and morale.

The difference between designated for assignment and outright assignment While the terms “designated for assignment” (DFA) and “outright assignment” may seem similar, there is a key difference between the two. DFA is the process by which a player is removed from his team’s 40-man roster and given a 7-day window for the team to trade him, release him, or place him on waivers. If the player is not claimed off waivers, he can be assigned to the minor leagues or kept on the 40-man roster. On the other hand, outright assignment is the process by which a player is removed from both the 25-man and 40-man rosters and sent directly to the minor leagues. There is no 7-day window for a team to make a decision, and the player does not need to clear waivers. In other words, DFA is a more flexible process that allows the team to potentially retain the player or trade him, while outright assignment is a more direct demotion to the minor leagues. The two terms are often used interchangeably, but it’s important to understand the differences between the two. The impact of designated for assignment on a player’s career and future opportunities Being designated for assignment can have a significant impact on a player’s career and future opportunities. If a player is claimed off waivers by another team, he may be given a fresh start and the opportunity to contribute at the major league level. However, if the player clears waivers and is sent to the minors, his future in baseball may be uncertain. DFA can also have financial implications for both the player and the team. If the player is released, he becomes a free agent and can sign with any team, but may not receive the same salary he had with his previous team. Additionally, if a team is unable to trade a player who has been designated for assignment, they may be responsible for paying a portion of the player’s salary. The DFA process can be emotionally challenging for players, as it can be difficult to see their careers and livelihoods put into question. However, some players have been able to bounce back from DFA and use the experience as motivation to improve and succeed at the major league level. Examples of notable players who have been designated for assignment Throughout baseball history, many notable players have been designated for assignment at some point in their careers. One example is David Ortiz, who was designated for assignment by the Minnesota Twins in 2002 before being released and signing with the Boston Red Sox, where he went on to become one of the greatest designated hitters of all time. Another example is Jose Bautista, who was designated for assignment by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2004 before being picked up by the Toronto Blue Jays and transforming into a two-time MLB home run champion. More recently, Albert Pujols, a three-time MVP and 10-time All-Star, was designated for assignment by the Los Angeles Angels in 2021 before being picked up by the Los Angeles Dodgers. These players’ experiences illustrate that being designated for assignment does not necessarily mean the end of a player’s career, and that they can use the experience as motivation to succeed in the future. The role of waivers in the designated for assignment process Waivers play a crucial role in the DFA process. When a player is designated for assignment, he must be placed on waivers before he can be traded or outright released. Waivers give other teams in the league the opportunity to claim the player and assume his contract and roster spot. The waiver process is designed to promote competitive balance in the league by giving all teams an opportunity to claim players who have been designated for assignment, regardless of their place in the standings. However, the process can also be complex and unpredictable, as teams must weigh the potential benefits of claiming a player against the risks and costs associated with doing so. Waivers can be an especially important factor in the DFA process for players with larger contracts or for teams with limited payroll flexibility. In these cases, a player who clears waivers and is outright released may be more likely to be picked up by another team, as they would not be responsible for assuming the player’s full contract. How a player can appeal a DFA decision While it is rare for a player to successfully appeal a DFA decision, there are a few situations in which a player may have grounds for an appeal. For example, if a team designates a player for assignment due to an injury that was not disclosed or properly diagnosed, the player may be able to appeal the decision and potentially be reinstated on the team’s active roster. In order to appeal a DFA decision, the player must file a grievance with the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) within 45 days of the transaction. The appeal will then be heard by an independent arbitrator, who will review the evidence presented by both the player and the team before making a final decision. While the appeal process can be time-consuming and expensive, it can provide a player with an opportunity to challenge a DFA decision and potentially continue his career at the major league level. The potential financial implications of designated for assignment for both players and teams Designating a player for assignment can have significant financial implications for both the player and the team. If the player is claimed off waivers, the team may be responsible for paying a portion of the player’s salary or may be relieved of the obligation entirely. If the player clears waivers and is outright released, the team may still be responsible for paying the remainder of the player’s contract, depending on the terms of the agreement. For the player, being designated for assignment can have long-term financial implications as well. If the player is released and becomes a free agent, he may struggle to find a team willing to offer him a similar contract. Additionally, if the player is sent to the minors, he may be paid a lower salary than he was making at the major league level. Overall, the financial impact of DFA can be significant and is an important factor for both players and teams to consider when making decisions about roster moves. The designated for assignment process in relation to the MLB Collective Bargaining Agreement The DFA process is governed by the Major League Baseball Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which outlines the rights and responsibilities of players and teams in relation to roster moves. The CBA includes provisions related to waivers, including the waiver claim process, which gives all teams in the league an opportunity to claim players who have been designated for assignment. The CBA also sets forth procedures for players to file grievances and challenge roster decisions, including DFA decisions, through the MLBPA. The CBA also sets minimum salary and service time requirements for players, which can impact a team’s decision to designate a player for assignment or keep him on the roster. Additionally, the CBA includes provisions related to arbitration, which can be used to resolve disputes between players and teams regarding contracts, salaries, and roster decisions. Overall, the DFA process is an important aspect of the MLB CBA, which governs many aspects of player contracts, salaries, and roster moves. Conclusion Being designated for assignment is a significant event in a player’s career that can have long-lasting implications. While the designated for assignment process is designed to give teams flexibility in managing their rosters, it can also be challenging for players who may be faced with uncertainty about their future. Waivers and financial considerations can also play important roles in the DFA process, and the procedures outlined in the MLB Collective Bargaining Agreement provide a framework for resolving disputes and ensuring fair treatment of players. Ultimately, the DFA process is an important aspect of the MLB landscape that requires careful consideration by teams and players alike. FAQs

1. what happens to a player who is designated for assignment.

A player who is designated for assignment is removed from his team’s 40-man roster and can be placed on waivers or outright released. If the player is not claimed by another team within the designated time frame, he can be sent to the minor leagues or become a free agent.

2. What is the difference between DFA and outright assignment?

DFA refers to the process of designating a player for assignment and placing him on waivers, while outright assignment refers to the process of removing a player from the 40-man roster and sending him to the minor leagues without passing through waivers.

3. How can a player appeal a DFA decision?

days of the transaction, and an independent arbitrator will review the evidence before making a final decision.

4. What are the financial implications of DFA for players and teams?

DFA can have significant financial implications for both players and teams. Teams may be responsible for paying a portion of the player’s salary or may be relieved of the obligation entirely if the player is claimed off waivers. For the player, being designated for assignment can impact his salary and long-term earning potential.

5. What is the role of waivers in the DFA process?

Waivers are used to give all teams in the league an opportunity to claim players who have been designated for assignment. If the player is claimed, the team claiming him assumes the responsibility for his contract. If the player clears waivers, he can be outright released or sent to the minor leagues.

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what does designate for assignment mean

How Does Designate For Assignment Work? [reasons, Process, & Outcomes]

If you follow Major League Baseball, then you must have heard of the term Designate for Assignment (DFA). When a player is DFA in baseball, various things can happen. Seeing this, you may ask, “what does designate for assignment mean?”

Designate for Assignment is a contractual term in MLB where the team removes the player from the active 40-man roster but still has the rights to the player. DFA puts the player on a waiver period where other teams can claim him.

But why does a team DFA a baseball player? What happens when a team designates a player for an assignment? Continue scrolling till the end as I answer all your questions regarding DFA in baseball.

Table of Contents

DFA Meaning Baseball

DFA is a term in Major League Baseball (MLB), which is a short form of “Designate for Assignment”. It means removing a player from the active roster of the baseball team without immediately releasing the member.

Many people confuse releasing with DFA. But they are different things. When a team designates a player for assignment, it is setting aside the player, not completely releasing them from the team.

Reasons for Designating Players for Assignment

A team can designate a player due to various reasons. It can be for changing the game strategy and tactics or trying to strengthen the team.

Reasons for designating players for assignment

Here are the most common reasons why a baseball designates a player for assignment:

  • Performance issues: Performance reason is the primary reason for DFA. If a player fails to perform well and does not meet the team’s expectations, then the management may decide to DFA him and take someone else on the team.

The performance issues can be anything from struggling with batting to poor fielding or pitching and more. Even though the player is not performing well, the team may not want to leave the player completely. That is why they opt for DFA.

  • Making room for new players: If the management finds an excellent performer outside the team, then they might decide to DFA an existing player. It will create room for the new player.

The new player may come from performing fantastically in the minor league. Plus, the management may also trade in new players from other teams.

  • Creating balance in the team: Although the management plans well before listing their roster, they can still find an imbalance in the team. Besides, they may also want to switch players to change their game strategy.

In that case, designating a player for assignment from the team can be the best solution. It will allow the team to bring in a new player with the required skill to create balance in the baseball team.

  • Trade options: Teams may also want to trade a player and that is why they do DFA. If the team directly releases the player, it will not give them any financial benefit. But they can DFA the player and look for trade opportunities.

If any other team is interested in the player, they may try to buy the designated player. In that case, the original team will get financial benefits from the trade.

  • Injuries: Injuries can also be a reason for DFA. Athletes can get injured at any time while playing. If the injury lasts long, it can hurt the team as that member can not play for the team.

In that case, the team usually DFA the injured player. Then the team brings in fit baseball players to continue the campaign with a full active 40-man roster. 

Designate for Assignment Process

Designate for Assignment in baseball is usually made by the team’s front office. It includes the coaching staff and general manager. They evaluate the player’s performance and the team’s need to make the call.

Once they make the decision, they will let the player and the MLB authority know about it. The team management will also inform the media about the decision to keep the fans updated and also let other teams know about player availability.

What Happens After Designation for Assignment?

When a player is designated for assignment, he enters the waiver period. It means the other baseball teams have the opportunity to claim the player. The waiver period usually lasts 7 days in MLB.

If another team claims the player during this waiver period, then they get all the rights to the player and can move him to their active roster. Such trading is common in other sports too.

In this scenario, the team who designated that player for assignment relinquishes all the rights of the player. Now, the new team will take care of the player’s contract and salary.

what happens designation for assignment

However, if no other team claims the player during the waiver period, he will be outright assigned to the minor leagues. It will happen when the player has minor league options remaining and is not claimed off waivers.

If the player is outrighted to the minor leagues, he will be removed from the MLB team’s 40-man roster. But he will remain with the organization and enjoy all the benefits.

Interestingly, the player has two choices here. He can either accept the outright assignment and play in the minor leagues or can ask for release and become a free agent.

Many players often are not interested in playing in the minor leagues. In that case, they ask for release after the DFA. Then he becomes a free agent, and any other MLB team can sign that player.

1. What is the difference between DFA and being released?

The main difference between DFA and being released is that the team retains the right to the player in DFA. But when the team releases a player in baseball, it terminates all the contracts between them, and the team holds no right to the player.

2. What is the difference between options and designated for assignment?

The main difference between options and designated for assignment is that the option allows the team to send the player to the minor leagues without putting him into the waiver period. That means no other team can claim the player. 

3. Can a player refuse assignment after being designated for assignment?

No. A player usually does not hold the right to refuse a designate for assignment. However, if he has been with MLB for over 3 years or has been outrighted previously, he can refuse the outright assignment.

4. Can a team designate a player for assignment multiple times?

Yes. A team can designate a player multiple times during their contract period. Whenever the team feels that the player is failing to meet the team’s expectations, they can DFA the player.

My Opinion on DFA

DFA in baseball can be tough for players. The miseries enhance when no other team shows interest in claiming or trading that player.

But it is good practice to get better team results in the MLB. The process allows the team to reorganize and improve their performance. Besides, it also allows the player to look for better opportunities in other teams.

For these reasons, I think DFA is a pretty good option for both the team and the player. It can benefit both parties.

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What is Designated for Assignment (DFA) in Baseball - What Does it Mean?

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What is DFA in baseball

What is DFA in baseball

What is Designated for Assignment (DFA) in Baseball?

Designated for assignment (DFA) is a process used in Major League Baseball when a team wants to remove a player from its 40-man roster. Here are some key points about DFA in baseball:

  • When a player is DFA’d, he is immediately removed from the team’s 40-man roster and placed on waivers. Other teams then have 7 days to claim the player’s contract.
  • If the player clears waivers unclaimed, the team has 10 days to trade, release, or outright the player to the minor leagues.
  • Teams often DFA players when they need to open up a spot on their 40-man roster to add another player.
  • A DFA’d player can be claimed by any other team for $20,000 and assumed the claiming team takes on his existing contract.
  • Once a player is DFA’d, he remains on the team’s 40-man roster but is removed from the active 25-man roster.

So in summary, DFA provides teams a way to remove players from their 40-man roster while giving other teams a chance to claim the player before they become a free agent. It’s an important process in MLB roster management.

  • Definition: Contractual term used when a MLB team wants to remove a player from its 40-man roster
  • Immediately removes player from 40-man roster and active roster
  • Provides team with 7-day window to trade, release, or outright player to minors
  • Player’s contract remains valid during this period

Designated for Assignment: A Contractual Roster Move in MLB

In Major League Baseball, teams have a 40-man roster of players under contract that are eligible to play in the majors and minors. Designated for assignment (DFA) is a contractual term used when a team wants to remove a player from its 40-man roster.

What is Designated for Assignment?

Designated for assignment is a process that allows MLB teams to open up a spot on their 40-man roster. When a player is DFA’d, he is immediately removed from both the 40-man roster and 25-man active roster. This opens a spot for the team to add another player.

How Does DFA Work?

After designating a player for assignment, the team must place him on irrevocable waivers within 7 days. Once on waivers, any other MLB team can claim the player’s contract during a designated waiver period. If the player clears waivers without being claimed, the team has 10 days to do one of three things:

  • Trade the player to another team
  • Release the player from his contract
  • Outright the player to the minor leagues

Outrighting removes the player from the 40-man roster but allows the team to keep his contract and assign him to a minor league affiliate.

During the DFA process, the player’s contract remains valid. If claimed on waivers, the new team takes on the full contract. If not claimed, the original team decides whether to release, trade, or outright the player while keeping the contract intact.

Why Use DFA?

Teams commonly use DFA when they need to open up a 40-man roster spot for a prospect call up, new free agent signing, or trade acquisition. It lets teams shuffle their rosters while giving other teams a chance to claim DFA’ed players. DFA provides an important contractual mechanism for MLB teams to manage their rosters mid-season.

Reasons for Designating a Player for Assignment

  • To open up spot on 40-man roster (for trade, free agent signing, returning injured player, etc.)
  • Due to poor performance by the player
  • If player sustained serious injury
  • For financial/contract reasons

There are several common reasons why a Major League Baseball team might choose to designate a player for assignment (DFA):

  • Poor performance : If a player is struggling significantly and not producing at the level expected, a team may DFA him to open up a roster spot for someone else. This often happens with veterans who are underperforming.
  • Injury : Teams will sometimes DFA injured players in order to free up a roster spot for an active replacement. This allows them to add someone who can contribute immediately.
  • Surplus at a position : When a team acquires a new player or has a prospect ready for promotion, they may need to clear a roster spot at that position. DFAing a surplus player at that position is one way to do this.
  • Contract reasons : Sometimes teams DFA players to remove an undesirable contract from their books or to avoid player bonuses. DFA’ing the player allows the contract to be assumed by another team.
  • Change in direction : Teams may want to move on from aging, more expensive veterans in order to play younger prospects. DFA gives them a way to move out veterans.
  • Out of minor league options : Players who are out of minor league option years can’t be sent down without being exposed to waivers. DFA is often used in this scenario.

So in summary, DFA gives teams a contractual mechanism to swap out underperforming or redundant players on their roster in exchange for players they hope will provide an upgrade. It allows for roster flexibility.

DFA Process

  • Player is immediately removed from 40-man roster
  • 7-day period where team can trade player or place on outright waivers
  • If unclaimed, team can trade, release, or outright player to minors
  • Certain service time rules affect player’s options (reject assignment, etc.)

Navigating the Designated for Assignment Process

Designated for assignment (DFA) is used by MLB teams to remove players from their 40-man roster. When a player is DFA’d, he is immediately taken off the 40-man roster, opening a spot for the team to add another player. This starts the DFA process.

Once DFA’d, the team has 7 days to either trade the player or place him on irrevocable outright waivers. During this period, the player remains part of the organization but cannot play in any games. If the player is traded, the process ends there.

If the 7-day period expires, the team must outright the player to the minors by placing him on waivers. If he clears waivers unclaimed by other teams, he can be outrighted. This removes him from the 40-man roster while still belonging to the same team.

However, the player can reject an outright assignment if he has accumulated at least three years of MLB service time. In this case, he can elect free agency to sign with any team. Otherwise, the player accepts the outright assignment.

If the player is claimed on outright waivers, the claiming team takes on his contract and adds him to their own 40-man roster. There is no option to reject the assignment.

Throughout the DFA process, the player’s contract remains valid and intact. Once DFA’d, the original team can either trade, release, or outright the player while keeping him under contract. DFA provides teams with roster flexibility while the player awaits his resolution.

The intricacies of the DFA process are governed by MLB’s collective bargaining agreement. It provides teams with a procedural mechanism to shuffle their rosters during the long baseball season.

Outcomes for DFA’d Player

  • Returned to 40-man roster
  • Traded to another team
  • Claimed off waivers by another team
  • Released and becomes free agent
  • Outrighted to minor leagues

Possible Outcomes When Designated for Assignment

Being designated for assignment is not necessarily the end of a player’s time with their current MLB team. There are a variety of outcomes that can occur after a player is DFA’d.

Return to 40-Man Roster

After designating a player for assignment, the team has 7 days to trade, release, or place the player on irrevocable waivers. During this initial period, the team may decide to remove the DFA designation and return the player to the 40-man roster. This scenario is rare, but provides one possible outcome.

Traded to Another Team

If the team opts to trade the DFA player within the 7-day period, his contract is assigned to the new team in exchange for another player, draft pick or cash considerations. The acquiring team inherits the player’s current contract.

Claimed Off Waivers

If the team places the player on outright waivers, any other MLB club can claim him within the designated waiver period. If claimed, the player is assigned to the new team’s 40-man roster. His contract remains valid.

Released as a Free Agent

If the player clears outright waivers with no team claiming his contract, his team can unconditionally release him. This grants the player free agency to sign with any MLB team.

Outrighted to Minors

The DFA team can also outright the player to the minor leagues after he clears waivers. This removes him from the 40-man roster while retaining his contracted services as an organizational depth player.

In summary, DFA leads to a variety of possible paths, including returning to the parent club, joining a new organization, becoming a free agent, or assignment to the minors. The outcome depends on waiver claim status and contractual details.

Strategic Uses of DFA

  • Roster management flexibility
  • Opportunity to trade player and get some value
  • Remove underperforming or ill-fitting players

Leveraging Designated for Assignment as a Roster Strategy

Designated for assignment provides MLB teams with an important mid-season roster management tool. There are several strategic reasons clubs use DFA throughout the long 162-game season.

Roster Flexibility

DFA creates room for additions through free agent signings, trades and prospect call-ups. By quickly removing a player from the 40-man roster, his spot can be filled by a new acquisition. This facilitates roster improvements.

Opportunity to Trade

Once a player is DFA’d, the team has 7 days to potentially trade him. This allows them to get some value in return, such as a low-level prospect. While most DFA players are unwanted, some still hold appeal for certain clubs.

Removing Underperformers

DFA is commonly used by teams to cut ties with veterans or role players who are underperforming expectations. Removing the player from the roster gives opportunities to others.

Change Direction

Teams may strategically utilize DFA to change roster construction and direction. This includes trading or releasing aging, expensive veterans in order to play younger prospects.

Minor League Depth

Players who clear outright waivers can be assigned to the minors while staying with the organization. This provides 40-man roster flexibility while retaining depth.

Trial Period

DFA may be used as a low-risk trial. If the player doesn’t perform after claiming, the new team can then DFA him themselves.

In summary, DFA allows teams to shuffle the roster and provides opportunity to access depth options, evaluate new players and cut underperformers. Teams leverage the DFA transaction strategically throughout MLB seasons.

Notable Examples of DFA Transactions

  • Pablo Sandoval, Adrian Gonzalez, Tim Lincecum
  • Shows unpredictability of process, even for big names

Big Name Players Subject to DFA Over the Years

While lesser known players are most commonly designated for assignment, even famous MLB stars have found themselves moving through the DFA process. Some examples:

Pablo Sandoval :

After signing a 5-year, $95 million deal with the Red Sox in 2014, Sandoval massively underperformed. He was DFA’d by Boston in 2017 to make room for prospects. Sandoval was later released.

Adrian Gonzalez :

A 5-time All-Star first baseman, he was DFA’d by the Atlanta Braves in 2018 shortly after being traded there. The Braves needed roster space and parted ways with Gonzalez, despite his successful career.

Tim Lincecum :

The 2-time Cy Young Award winner found himself DFA’d in June 2016 after his dominance waned due to injuries and lost velocity. The Angels cut ties mid-season once Lincecum was no longer effective.

Alex Rodriguez :

In 2016, the Yankees DFA’d A-Rod, one of the most decorated players of his era. They subsequently released him, cutting short his massive $275 million contract.

These examples show that even players with impressive track records and large contracts are not immune to the DFA process. Teams will move on from any underperforming or ill-fitting player, using DFA as the method.

The waiver claim element of DFA also shows its unpredictability. One team deems a player expendable, only for another team to eagerly claim that player off waivers for their own roster needs.

In the end, DFA is a necessary transaction within the business of baseball. For teams, even the biggest names are movable if it improves the roster.

In conclusion, Designated for Assignment is an important contractual mechanism that allows MLB teams to strategically manage their 40-man rosters during the season. Players can be immediately removed from the roster and replaced when they are underperforming, injured, have high salaries, or there is a surplus at their position.

The DFA process involves placing the player on waivers, where any team can claim their contract in a 7-day period. If unclaimed, the team can trade, release or outright the player to the minors while keeping him under contract. Well-known players are sometimes DFA’d as well, showing the unpredictability of the process.

Teams leverage DFA transactions to shuffle their rosters, open spots for prospects, remove struggling veterans, change direction, and add organizational depth. It provides flexibility to shape MLB rosters week-to-week over the long season. While seen as a sign of failure, DFA serves an important purpose in roster construction strategy. It is an essential tool for GMs seeking to improve their ballclub.

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What does designated for assignment mean in MLB? What to know about Madison Bumgarner

designated for assignment process

The Arizona Diamondbacks designated pitcher Madison Bumgarner for assignment on Thursday after his latest rough outing on Wednesday.

Bumgarner is 0-3 on the season with a 10.26 ERA in 16.2 innings over four starts. He has given up 25 hits and 19 earned runs, while walking 15 and striking out 10.

What's next for the pitcher and the Arizona Diamondbacks?

Here's a look at the designated for assignment process and what it means for Bumgarner and his MLB team.

What does designated for assignment (DFA) mean in baseball?

The MLB.com glossary explains the process as follows: "When a player's contract is designated for assignment — often abbreviated "DFA" — that player is immediately removed from his club's 40-man roster. Within seven days of the transaction (had been 10 days under the 2012-16 Collective Bargaining Agreement), the player can either be traded or placed on irrevocable outright waivers."

What happens if the player is claimed off waivers by another team?

The glossary explains the process as follows: "If the player is claimed off said waivers by another club, he is immediately added to that team's 40-man roster, at which point he can be optioned to the Minor Leagues (if he has Minor League options remaining) or assigned to his new team's 26-man roster. If the player clears waivers, he may be sent outright to the Minor Leagues or released. Players with more than three years of Major League service time or who have been previously outrighted may reject the outright assignment in favor of free agency. Clubs may utilize this option to clear a spot on the 40-man roster — typically with the intention of adding a newly acquired player (via trade or free agency), a Minor Leaguer or a player being activated from the 60-day injured list."

What are the specifics of Madison Bumgarner's DFA?

The Arizona Republic's Nick Piecoro explained the specifics regarding the situation for Bumgarner and the Diamondbacks in his story detailing the pitcher being designated for assignment on Thursday.

He wrote: "Bumgarner is likely to be placed on waivers soon, if he hasn't been already, and would become a free agent once he clears. He could then sign with another team for a prorated portion of the league minimum ($720,000). He is not likely to be claimed or traded given the amount of money still owed to him by the Diamondbacks."

How much do the Diamondbacks owe Madison Bumgarner?

Bumgarner signed a 5-year, $85 million contract with the Diamondbacks in December of 2019. He is still owed $34 million through next season. In cutting ties with Bumgarner, the Diamondbacks are setting a new club record for dead money, exceeding the $22 million they ate when releasing right-hander Russ Ortiz during the 2006 season.

More on Madison Bumgarner and the Diamondbacks

Madison Bumgarner designated for assignment by Diamondbacks

Why the Diamondbacks did not call up Brandon Pfaadt to replace Madison Bumgarner

With sense of urgency, Diamondbacks move on from struggling Madison Bumgarner

Arizona Diamondbacks fans sound off: Madison Bumgarner must be removed from rotation

Reach Jeremy Cluff at  [email protected] . Follow him on Twitter  @Jeremy_Cluff.

Support local journalism: Subscribe to  azcentral.com  today.

Legion Report

Designated for Assignment in Baseball: Key Rules and Strategies

designated for assignment process

In Major League Baseball, team rosters and player contracts are subject to constant change. One particular term that holds significant importance in this regard is “designate for assignment” (DFA).Understanding the DFA process and its implications on a player’s career is essential for anyone looking to learn more about the intricacies of Major League Baseball.

When a player’s contract is designated for assignment, he is removed from his team’s 40-man roster immediately. This action triggers a seven-day window within which the team must either trade the player or place him on irrevocable outright waivers.

The primary objective of the DFA process is to create flexibility for teams to manage their rosters while allowing them the opportunity to keep or release players based on performance or strategic considerations.

In general, a player that has been designated for assignment may find his career trajectory altered, as he could either end up being traded to another team, outrighted to a minor league team, or released from his contract entirely. As such, the DFA process plays a vital role in shaping the dynamics of professional baseball, impacting both teams and players alike.

Designate for Assignment Definition

Reasons for designating a player, waiver period, player outcomes, roster management, trade opportunities, notable dfa examples.

Designate for Assignment (DFA) is a contractual term used in Major League Baseball (MLB) when a team wants to remove a player from its 40-man roster.

This action allows the team to make room for a new player or provide flexibility in managing its roster. Once a player is designated for assignment, the team has seven days to decide the player’s fate, which could include trading, releasing, or outrighting the player to the minor leagues, among other options.

In addition to being removed from the 40-man roster, the player is also taken off the team’s active roster, meaning they cannot participate in any games during the seven-day period. The designated player’s contract remains in force, and they continue to receive their salary and benefits during this time.

To facilitate the player’s potential move to another team or the minor leagues, the player can be placed on waivers for a specified period. Waivers provide other MLB teams with the opportunity to claim the player and assume their contract. If multiple teams place a claim, the team with the weakest record in the player’s league is given priority. If the player is not claimed by any team during the waiver period, they can then be outrighted to the minor leagues, traded, or released.

However, if the player has accrued a specific amount of Major League service time, they may have the right to refuse an outright assignment to the minor leagues, opting instead for free agency.

There are various reasons a baseball team might opt to designate a player for assignment (DFA). One common reason is to make room on the 40-man roster for another player. The move allows the team to immediately remove a player from their roster and provides them with some roster flexibility.

Another reason for designating a player is due to their performance. If a player is experiencing a significant slump or has consistently failed to meet the team’s expectations, the DFA process can be implemented as a method to allow the player to refocus, find their form, or make adjustments while they are in the minor leagues.

Injuries can also be a factor. When a player sustains a serious injury and is unable to contribute to the team, it may be necessary to designate them for assignment to open a roster spot for a healthy replacement. Similarly, when a player who was previously on the injured list is ready to return to the team, the organization may need to DFA another player to make room.

Lastly, financial considerations can come into play. In some cases, a team might designate a player for assignment due to their contract, such as when a high-priced player is underperforming and the team wishes to move on without having to pay that player’s remaining salary. This could make DFA an option for teams who are trying to reduce payroll while still retaining some control.

DFA Process

The process of Designated for Assignment (DFA) in baseball involves removing a player from a team’s 40-man roster. This step provides teams with flexibility in managing their player rosters and creates opportunities for the player in question to find a new role within another team.

When a player is designated for assignment, the team has seven days to determine the next course of action. During this period, the player can be traded or placed on irrevocable outright waivers, allowing other teams to claim the player (MLB.com) .

There are several possible outcomes for a player who has been designated for assignment:

  • Returned to the 40-man roster: The team can choose to reverse the decision and return the player to the 40-man roster
  • Trade: The player can be traded to another team during the waiver period, allowing both teams to negotiate a mutually beneficial agreement.
  • Waivers: If the player is placed on waivers and claimed by another team, the new team takes responsibility for the player’s contract.
  • Release: The player is released from the team, effectively making them a free agent and able to negotiate a new contract with any team.
  • Outright to the Minor Leagues: If the player clears waivers, meaning no teams claim the player, they can be outrighted from the 40-man roster into Minor League Baseball, allowing the player to continue their career within the organization.

The DFA process creates flexibility for teams to adjust their rosters as needed, while providing players with the opportunity to find new roles within the league.

Strategies and Implications

Designating a player for assignment (DFA) is a useful roster management tool in baseball. When a player is designated for assignment , they are immediately removed from the team’s 40-man roster, but their rights are retained by the team. This allows the team to explore different options within a seven-day window, such as trading the player or placing them on irrevocable outright waivers.

Utilizing the DFA process can help teams manage their roster more effectively by providing flexibility in making decisions. Teams may choose to designate a player for assignment if they need to clear roster space for an incoming player or if they believe the player is no longer a suitable fit for the team’s strategy. This process also provides teams with the opportunity to find appropriate solutions for both the team and the player, minimizing the risk of losing the player without receiving any return value.

When a player is designated for assignment, there are trade opportunities that may benefit the team. The player can be traded to another team within the seven-day window, allowing the original team to potentially receive assets in return. This can include other players, cash considerations, or a combination of both.

Trading a designated player provides teams with the possibility of acquiring additional resources that may be more aligned with their strategic goals or fill specific needs on the roster. It serves as a last resort for the team to recoup some value from the player before potentially losing them via waivers.

In summary, the designated for assignment process in baseball offers valuable roster management and trade opportunities for teams. By strategically using this tool, teams can optimize their roster composition and take advantage of potential trade returns to build a competitive team.

Throughout the history of Major League Baseball, many players have been designated for assignment (DFA). While some DFA cases are unremarkable, others involve notable players or have led to interesting outcomes. Here are a few prominent examples:

One such case involved former World Series MVP Pablo Sandoval who was designated for assignment by the Boston Red Sox in 2017. After experiencing a significant decline in performance and dealing with health issues, the Red Sox ultimately DFA’d Sandoval , eventually releasing him.

Another significant example is the 2018 DFA placement of four-time All-Star Adrian Gonzalez by the New York Mets. The first baseman struggled in his time with the Mets and was consequently designated for assignment , eventually released and then retiring.

Former Cy Young Award winner Tim Lincecum also experienced a notable DFA in 2016, when the Los Angeles Angels removed him from their 40-man roster due to poor performance. In this case, Lincecum cleared waivers and was outrighted to Triple-A before ultimately electing free agency later that year.

In summary, these notable DFA examples showcase the unpredictability and challenges faced by professional baseball players. The designated for assignment process is a reminder that no player is immune to changes in performance, injuries, or other factors that may lead to their removal from a team’s 40-man roster.

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Home » Why Do Players Get DFA (Designated for Assignment)?

Why Do Players Get DFA (Designated for Assignment)?

Designated for assignment (DFA) is a term used in baseball to describe a move by a team to remove a player from its active roster. The player is then placed on the team’s reserve list, where they can remain until the team either releases the player or trades them. The term is used by Major League Baseball (MLB) and Minor League Baseball (MiLB). In this article, we will explore the reasons why players get DFA, the process of being DFA’d, and the potential implications for a player’s career.

What Does It Mean to Be Designated for Assignment?

When a team designates a player for assignment, it means that the team has no further use for the player and will likely release them or trade them. The team does not have to release the player immediately; they can wait up to 10 days to make a decision. During this period, the player is not eligible to play in any games.

Why Do Teams Designate Players for Assignment?

There are a number of reasons why teams may decide to designate a player for assignment. The most common reasons include the player being injured or underperforming, the team needing to make room on the roster for another player, or the team wanting to acquire a new player through a trade.

Injuries are a common reason for DFA. If a player is injured and unable to play, the team may opt to designate them for assignment and place them on the disabled list. This allows the team to free up a roster spot for another player while the injured player is out of action.

Underperformance

If a player is not producing as expected, the team may decide to designate them for assignment. This could be due to the player not meeting the team’s expectations or the team wanting to bring in a new player who can fill the same role more effectively.

Roster Considerations

Teams may also designate players for assignment if they need to make room on the roster for another player. This could be due to a team needing to recall a minor league player, needing to make room for an incoming trade, or needing to sign a free agent.

Implications of Being Designated for Assignment

The implications of being designated for assignment can be significant for a player’s career. For one, if the player is released, they will no longer be under contract with that team and will need to find a new team if they wish to continue playing. Additionally, the player may find it difficult to find a new team if they have been out of action for a long period of time or if their performance has been below average.

Process of Being DFA’d

The process of being DFA’d can vary depending on the situation. Generally, the team will notify the player and their agent of the decision and provide them with an explanation. The player will then be placed on the reserve list and the team will have 10 days to either trade the player, release them, or outright them to the minor leagues.

Designated for assignment (DFA) is a term used in baseball to describe a move by a team to remove a player from its active roster. The reasons why players get DFA can vary, but the most common reasons include injury, underperformance, and roster considerations. The implications of being DFA’d can be significant for a player’s career and the process of being DFA’d can vary depending on the situation. Ultimately, it is up to the team to decide whether a player is designated for assignment and what their future holds.

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What does designated for assignment mean in MLB? What to know about Nick Ahmed

The Arizona Diamondbacks  designated Nick Ahmed for assignment after Wednesday’s 12-5 win over the Colorado Rockies .

Ahmed, the longest-tenured player in franchise history — his debut with the Diamondbacks was on June 29, 2014 — was a two-time Gold Glove winner at shortstop. This season, he was hitting just .212 and had committed 8 errors in only 65 games.

What's next for Ahmed and the Diamondbacks?

Here's a look at the designated for assignment process and what it means for Ahmed and his MLB team.

What does designated for assignment (DFA) mean in baseball?

This is how the  MLB.com glossary  explains the process: "When a player's contract is designated for assignment — often abbreviated "DFA" — that player is immediately removed from his club's 40-man roster. Within seven days of the transaction (had been 10 days under the 2012-16 Collective Bargaining Agreement), the player can either be traded or placed on irrevocable outright waivers."

What happens if a player is claimed off waivers by another MLB team?

Again, we refer to the glossary: "If the player is claimed off said waivers by another club, he is immediately added to that team's 40-man roster, at which point he can be optioned to the Minor Leagues (if he has Minor League options remaining) or assigned to his new team's 26-man roster. If the player clears waivers, he may be sent outright to the Minor Leagues or released. Players with more than three years of Major League service time or who have been previously outrighted may reject the outright assignment in favor of free agency. Clubs may utilize this option to clear a spot on the 40-man roster — typically with the intention of adding a newly acquired player (via trade or free agency), a Minor Leaguer or a player being activated from the 60-day injured list."

What to know about Nick Ahmed's DFA?

The Diamondbacks' decision to designate Ahmed for assignment is fairly routine when a team is looking to remove an underachieving veteran player from the 40-man roster. These types of players are not part of the franchise's future plans, so they would not be candidates to option to the minor leagues. Also, since the trading deadline passed in August, using waivers is the only option available for a player to move to another team.

As Arizona Republic Diamondbacks insider Nick Piecoro reported, Ahmed was not the same player, offensively or defensively , since diving for a ball during an exhibition in July 2020 while preparing for the start of the pandemic-shortened season. Since the team was likely to give top prospect Jordan Lawlar a shot at the starting shortstop job next year, cutting ties with Ahmed was not that much of a surprise.

How much do the Diamondbacks owe Nick Ahmed?

Ahmed was playing on the final season of a four-year, $32.5 million contract. He was making $10.375 million this season, so the club still owes him about $1.4 million, per mlbtraderumors.com .

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: What does DFA mean in baseball? What's next for Nick Ahmed, DBacks?

Ralph Branca – Baseball Legend

Understanding the mlb dfa process: explained in detail.

Are you curious about how Major League Baseball (MLB) teams handle the designated for assignment (DFA) process? Well, you’re in the right place! In this article, I’ll walk you through the ins and outs of how this intriguing process works in the world of professional baseball.

When a player is designated for assignment, it means that their team has decided to remove them from the active roster. But what happens next? That’s where things get interesting. The DFA process gives the team a limited amount of time to either trade, release, or outright the player to the minors. It’s a strategic move that allows teams to make room for new additions or evaluate the player’s future with the organization.

What is the designated for assignment (DFA) process?

The Designated for Assignment (DFA) process is a strategic move in Major League Baseball (MLB) that allows teams to remove a player from the active roster. When a player is designated for assignment, it means their spot on the roster is being reassessed by the team. This process gives the team a limited amount of time to either trade, release, or send the player to the minor leagues.

The DFA process is often used to create roster flexibility or evaluate a player’s future with the organization. Teams may choose to designate a player for assignment for a variety of reasons, such as underperformance, injury concerns, or the need to make room for new additions to the roster.

Once a player is designated for assignment, the team has up to 10 days to take further action. During this period, the team can either trade the player to another team, release them and remove them from the organization, or place them on waivers. Placing a player on waivers means that other teams have the opportunity to claim the player within a designated window of time.

If a player is not traded or claimed off waivers within the 10-day period, the team has the option to outright the player to the minor leagues, assuming the player has options remaining. If the player is out of options, they must be placed on waivers again for the purpose of outrighting them.

It’s important to note that being designated for assignment does not necessarily mean the end of a player’s career with the organization. In some cases, a player may be able to clear waivers and be assigned to the minor leagues, where they can work on their skills and potentially earn another chance at the major league level.

The Designated for Assignment (DFA) process in MLB allows teams to remove a player from the active roster, giving them the opportunity to trade, release, or send the player to the minors. This strategic move helps teams create roster flexibility and evaluate the player’s future with the organization.

Reasons for designating a player for assignment

When it comes to the designated for assignment (DFA) process in Major League Baseball (MLB), there are several reasons why a team may choose to designate a player for assignment. Here are some of the most common ones:

  • Performance : One of the main reasons for designating a player for assignment is their performance on the field. When a player is not living up to expectations or underperforming, the team may decide to reassess their position on the roster. This allows the team to make room for someone who can contribute more effectively.
  • Injury : Injuries can also play a role in the decision to designate a player for assignment. If a player’s injuries are hindering their ability to play at their best, the team may choose to designate them for assignment to allow them time to recover or seek alternative options.
  • Roster Flexibility : DFA’ing a player can create roster flexibility for the team. It provides an opportunity to evaluate other players within the organization or make room for new acquisitions. By designating a player for assignment, the team can make strategic moves to improve their roster and increase their chances of success.
  • Contract or Salary Issues : Contract or salary issues can also be a factor in the decision to designate a player for assignment. If a player’s contract is burdening the team financially or if they are overpaid for their performance, the team may choose to designate them for assignment to free up salary cap space or make room for a more cost-effective option.
  • Development or Age : Sometimes, a player may be designated for assignment due to their development or age. If a young prospect is not progressing as expected or an older player is declining in performance, the team may decide to reassess their future with the organization through the DFA process.

It’s important to note that being designated for assignment does not necessarily mean the end of a player’s career with the organization. They may have the opportunity to clear waivers and be assigned to the minor leagues, giving them a chance to further develop or regain their form. Overall, the DFA process allows teams to make strategic moves to improve their roster and maintain a competitive edge in the ever-evolving world of MLB.

The timeline of the DFA process

When a player is designated for assignment (DFA), it triggers a series of events that take place within a specific timeline. Understanding this timeline is crucial for both teams and players involved. Let’s delve into the step-by-step process:

  • DFA Announcement : The team announces the decision to designate a player for assignment, which means the player’s spot on the roster is being reassessed. This announcement is typically made public through various media outlets.
  • 10-Day Period : Once the player is designated for assignment, the team has a 10-day window to determine the player’s future. During this time, the team considers various options such as trading the player, releasing them, placing them on waivers, or outrighting them to the minor leagues.
  • Trade Opportunities : If the team believes there is value in the player and wants to get a return, they may explore trade possibilities within the 10-day period. This allows the team to potentially acquire other players or assets in exchange for the player designated for assignment.
  • Clearing Waivers : If the team is unable to find a trade partner or decides against releasing the player, they may attempt to place them on waivers. This process involves making the player available to other teams for a specified period. If no team claims the player within that time, they can be assigned to the minor leagues.
  • Release or Minor League Assignment : If the player goes unclaimed on waivers, the team has two choices. They can either release the player, making them a free agent, or assign them to the minor leagues if they have minor league options remaining.

Throughout this timeline, teams carefully consider the player’s performance, injury history, contract or salary considerations, age, and development potential. The DFA process offers teams an opportunity to assess their roster, address roster flexibility issues, and make strategic moves to maintain a competitive edge in Major League Baseball.

By understanding the timeline of the DFA process, players and teams can navigate this often-challenging period with clarity and certainty. It’s important to remember that being designated for assignment doesn’t necessarily spell the end of a player’s career with the organization. They may still have the opportunity to clear waivers and continue their journey in the minor leagues.

Trading a player after being designated for assignment

When a player is designated for assignment (DFA) in Major League Baseball (MLB), it doesn’t necessarily mean the end of their career with the organization. One option available to the team during the 10-day period is to trade the player to another team. This allows the team to potentially receive something in return for the player rather than losing them for nothing.

Trading a player after being designated for assignment can be a strategic move for teams. It allows them to address specific needs or acquire assets that can help improve their roster. In some cases, the team may have already reached out to other teams to gauge their interest in the player before making the DFA decision.

During the 10-day period, teams have the opportunity to negotiate trades with other teams. If a trade is agreed upon, the player is transferred to the new team and their DFA status is lifted. However, if no trade is made within the 10-day period, the team will have to choose among other available options such as releasing the player, placing them on waivers, or outrighting them to the minor leagues.

Trading a player after being designated for assignment requires careful evaluation of the player’s value and the needs of other teams. It can be a complex process that involves negotiations between teams, considering player contracts and salaries, and determining the overall impact on the team’s roster.

It’s important to note that not all players who are designated for assignment are traded. Some players may not garner enough interest from other teams, or their contracts and performance may limit their trade value. However, the possibility of trading a player gives teams an opportunity to potentially improve their roster and make strategic moves to maintain a competitive edge in MLB.

Overall, the DFA process provides teams with the flexibility to reevaluate players on their roster and make necessary changes. Trading a player after being designated for assignment is just one of the possible outcomes during this process, allowing teams to potentially acquire assets that can benefit their organization in the long run.

Releasing a player after being designated for assignment

When a player is designated for assignment (DFA) in Major League Baseball (MLB), the team has a limited amount of time to either trade, release, or send the player to the minor leagues. In some cases, teams may choose to release a player after they have been designated for assignment.

Releasing a player essentially means that the team is terminating the player’s contract, making them a free agent and allowing them to explore opportunities with other teams. This option is often exercised when the team is not able to find a trade partner or does not see a future for the player within the organization.

Releasing a player after the DFA process can be a difficult decision for teams, as it means parting ways with a player without being able to receive any compensation in return. However, there are several circumstances where this option may be beneficial:

  • Performance : If a player has consistently underperformed and the team sees no potential for improvement, releasing them may be the best course of action to open up a roster spot for someone who can contribute.
  • Injury : If a player has suffered from a significant injury that may impact their future performance or ability to play, the team may choose to release them rather than keeping them on the roster and dealing with the potential long-term implications of their injury.
  • Roster Flexibility : Releasing a player after the DFA process allows the team to create roster flexibility, which can be important when making other roster moves or accommodating new acquisitions.
  • Contract or Salary Issues : If a player’s contract or salary is considered burdensome, releasing them can help alleviate any financial constraints on the team.
  • Development or Age : Occasionally, a team may designate a player for assignment to reassess their development or evaluate their fit with the team based on their age. If the team does not see a long-term future for the player, releasing them may be the best option.

While releasing a player after the DFA process does not provide any immediate benefit to the team, it can be a necessary step to address roster needs, financial concerns, or simply provide the player with an opportunity to continue their career elsewhere.

In the following section, I will discuss another option available to teams after designating a player for assignment: outrighting them to the minor leagues .

Outrighting a player to the minors after being designated for assignment

When a player is designated for assignment (DFA), outrighting them to the minor leagues is one of the possible options for the team during the 10-day period. Outrighting a player means that they are removed from the team’s 40-man roster and placed on waivers.

If the player successfully clears waivers, they are then outrighted to the minor leagues. This means that they are no longer on the team’s active roster and are typically sent to one of the team’s affiliate clubs in the farm system. However, it’s important to note that outrighting a player does not completely remove them from the organization.

Outrighting a player to the minors after being designated for assignment can serve a few purposes. It allows the team to create roster flexibility by removing the player from the 40-man roster, making room for other players who may be more valuable or needed in the immediate future. It also gives the team an opportunity to assess the player’s performance and development in a less pressure-filled environment.

Moreover, outrighting a player to the minors can provide the player with an opportunity to work on their skills, regain confidence, or make necessary adjustments to their game. It’s not uncommon for players who have been outrighted to the minor leagues to eventually work their way back to the major leagues and become valuable contributors to their team.

Overall, outrighting a player to the minors after being designated for assignment can be a strategic move for a team. It provides an avenue for roster flexibility while also giving the player an opportunity to refine their skills and potentially make a return to the major leagues.

No conclusion paragraph should be included.

Impact on a player’s contract and salary

When a player is designated for assignment (DFA) in Major League Baseball (MLB), it not only affects their spot on the roster but also has financial implications. The DFA process allows a team to reassess a player’s future with the organization, which can impact their contract and salary. Let’s take a closer look at how the DFA process affects a player’s financial situation.

  • Roster Spot and Pay : When a player is designated for assignment, their spot on the 40-man roster is immediately opened up for another player. However, the player who is DFA’d still remains under contract with the team. During the designated period, which is generally 10 days, the team has the option to trade, release, outright, or assign the player to the minor leagues.
  • Contract Status : The DFA process does not automatically void a player’s contract. If a player is not traded, released, or outrighted within the designated period, they can be assigned to the minor leagues with the consent of the player. In this case, the player’s contract remains intact, but they are no longer on the 40-man roster.
  • Salary Obligations : The DFA process can also impact a player’s salary. If a player is released or outrighted to the minor leagues after being DFA’d, their guaranteed contract remains in effect, and they continue to receive their full salary. However, if a player is traded during the DFA period, the new team may assume all or part of the player’s salary obligations.

It is important to note that teams have the flexibility to negotiate with the player regarding their contract and salary after designating them for assignment. They can explore options such as outrighting the player to the minors with an adjusted salary, or even reaching a mutual agreement to terminate the contract.

Overall, the DFA process not only affects a player’s roster status but also has implications for their contract and salary. It is a complex situation that requires careful evaluation by both the team and the player to determine the best course of action moving forward.

Challenges and considerations in the DFA process

When it comes to the designated for assignment (DFA) process in Major League Baseball (MLB), there are several challenges and considerations that both the team and the player must take into account. Let’s take a closer look at some of these factors:

1. Roster Flexibility

One of the key considerations in the DFA process is the team’s need for roster flexibility. By designating a player for assignment, the team opens up a spot on the roster that can be filled by another player. This allows the team to make necessary changes to the lineup or address specific needs within the team. However, it is important to note that the DFA process is not a decision taken lightly, as it often involves tough choices and potential consequences for both the player and the organization.

2. Player Development and Future

Another important factor in the DFA process is the evaluation of a player’s future with the organization. Sometimes, a player may be designated for assignment as part of their development plan. This could be to give them more playing time in the minor leagues or to work on specific aspects of their game. In such cases, the team believes that the player has potential but needs more time or adjustments before being ready for the major leagues.

3. Performance and Injuries

Performance and injuries also play a significant role in the DFA process. If a player is underperforming or struggling with injuries, the team may choose to designate them for assignment to reassess their situation. By doing so, the team can create an opportunity to bring in a player who may be performing better or is healthier. It is crucial for teams to carefully evaluate a player’s performance and health before making a DFA decision.

4. Contract and Salary Issues

Contract and salary issues can also be factors considered in the DFA process. Sometimes, a player’s contract or salary may not align with their performance or the team’s financial situation. In such cases, the team may choose to designate the player for assignment to explore other options. The DFA process gives the team an opportunity to negotiate with the player regarding their contract and salary. This negotiation can result in a trade, release, or a different arrangement that benefits both parties involved.

Understanding the designated for assignment (DFA) process in Major League Baseball (MLB) is crucial for both teams and players. The DFA process provides teams with the opportunity to reassess a player’s spot on the roster and make necessary adjustments. During the 10-day period, teams have various options, including trading, releasing, placing on waivers, or outrighting the player to the minor leagues.

The DFA process is often utilized to create roster flexibility, evaluate a player’s future with the organization, or address performance, injury, contract, or development concerns. Teams must carefully consider factors such as player development, future potential, performance, injuries, and contract and salary issues when making DFA decisions.

For players, the DFA process can be challenging and uncertain, as it may determine their future in the organization or even their career in the MLB. It is essential for players to stay focused, continue to work on their skills, and remain open to potential opportunities that may arise during the DFA period.

Overall, the DFA process is a crucial aspect of roster management in MLB. Teams must carefully evaluate their options, while players must navigate the process with determination and a willingness to adapt to new opportunities that may arise.

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Force out: What happens to players who are designated for assignment?

This has been a big year for one of baseball's most mundane transactions.

From Hanley Ramirez to Matt Harvey, from Phil Hughes to Melky Cabrera, from Adrian Gonzalez to Pedro Alvarez, there may never have been a season with more big names listed in the depths of the newspaper agate pages under those three cruel words: Designated for assignment.

When a team decides to DFA a player, he's taken off the 40-man roster immediately, and the team has seven days - a change this season, as previously it was 10 days - to trade him, send him outright to the minor leagues after he clears waivers, or release him. That is what happens from an official standpoint, but it's easy to forget that there is an actual person whose life is turned upside down when the DFA comes.

Imagine being a professional baseball player, but all of a sudden you have nowhere to play baseball. What do you do?

"It's a complete case-by-case basis," said Angels outfielder Chris Young, who was DFA'd by the Mets in August of 2014, then released before signing with the Yankees and rejuvenating his career.

"I went home, continued to work out and hit, and then I got the phone call from the Yankees. You don't know anything. I didn't know anything. I was just hopeful that another opportunity would come my way, and when it did, try to take advantage of it."

Young makes it sound fairly simple, but just going home and working out to stay in game shape is a challenge. If and when another team comes calling, the opportunity to make an impression can be fleeting.

The best way to prepare for that would be to head to the organization's minor league facility, hit the gym, and get some reps on the field with minor leaguers. When a player is designated for assignment, though, that is not an option - even if the team's plan is for an outright assignment to the minors. During that week, the player is not part of the team, but also not free.

designated for assignment process

"You're in limbo," said former Cubs infielder Jeff Huson, now a Rockies broadcaster, remembering when he was designated for assignment in 1996 by the Orioles . "You either go home, or you stay in the city for a few days. In my case, I waited around for a few days because I got DFA'd by Baltimore, and I stayed there because I didn't want to go home, because what if it's an East Coast team that claims me? Then I'd have to go all the way back.

"You literally sit there not knowing what your future's gonna hold. It's the worst possible case for a player, because you have no home, and you're trying to stay in shape - where do you go? You maybe go to a high school field? Play some video games and the quarters you have left over, go in the cage? Think about playing in a major-league game, then going to some warehouse and hitting off a machine, or even if you can find somebody to throw to you, they're not going to be as good as what you get in the major leagues.”

At the same time that physical challenge is foisted upon a player, there's also the mental one. It's not just the potential ennui of being without a team, but of having been cut from a 40-man roster. How a player handles that can have a lot to do with what happens next, and seizing that opportunity.

"I never took it as anything bad or looked too far into it when all I could do was just keep working on stuff," said Yankees reliever A.J. Cole, who had a 13.06 ERA when the Nationals designated him for assignment in April, and has posted a 0.69 mark in seven appearances with New York since a trade for cash considerations. "I needed to keep doing what I need to do as a pitcher.

"Everyone says it's always good to get a good start in a different place, and sometimes it is. Right now, it's really helping me, and there's some great guys here that help me out. It's a fun place to play here."

Not every player gets to land with a team as good as this year's Yankees, but there can be positives in other ways. Cubs catcher Chris Gimenez has been DFA'd four times in his career, thrice during the season. His experiences have varied from heading to the minors - "once you decide to accept the assignment, you're champing at the bit to get there" - to being traded to a Cleveland team in 2016 that wound up going to the World Series.

designated for assignment process

That was Gimenez's third time with Cleveland, having made his debut there in 2009, with stops in Seattle , Tampa Bay , and Texas before returning to Ohio in 2014.

"That was the one that kind of sticks with me," Gimenez said. "In that case, it worked out good, because my wife was basically ready to have our second son. We had two times where we went into the hospital and nothing happened, and that kind of gave me an extra three days. The terrible thing was, we were building our house where we live now, so we were staying with her parents, and our 3-year-old son, at the time, was there. It was a little bit of a crowded spot, and I appreciate her parents letting us stay there, because it wasn't the original plan the way everything happened.

"I ended up spending six days at home - three on the paternity leave, and three after I (was designated for assignment). Then I got the next flight to Texas, and ended up coming home like four days after that anyway - I got traded, was there for a day, then my wife had our son. It was a lot of travel for a few days, but that's alright.

"Every possible way that could've happened to me, it's happened in my career, but that's how it goes, and you can either let it affect you, or just suck it up and go about your business."

Jesse Spector is the sports business columnist for Dealbreaker, a columnist for Rockies Magazine, the host of "Jesse Spector Is..." on Lightning Power Play Radio, and one of the hosts of the Locked On Yankees podcast. He previously was the national baseball and hockey writer for Sporting News, covered the New York Rangers for the Daily News, and worked for SportsTicker, the Associated Press, and the Brooklyn Eagle. He lives in New York.

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MLB options, waivers and outright assignments, explained

Here’s a glossary of what MLB transaction terms really mean.

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Seattle Mariners v Detroit Tigers

Now that the 2017 World Series is over, Major League Baseball teams are wasting no time in making moves to adjust their rosters for the 2018 season.

Andrew Romine was placed on waivers and claimed by the Seattle Mariners . Jim Adduci cleared waivers and was outrighted to the minor leagues. Alex Presley cleared waivers, was outrighted, and elected free agency. Tyler Collins cleared waivers, was outrighted, and might elect free agency. Kyle Ryan, Myles Jaye , Bryan Holaday , and Efren Navarro were also placed on outright waivers. Eight players, all placed on waivers, with different situations.

Here is how they work.

What are waivers?

Waivers are a way for a major league team to take a player off its 40-man roster in order to send him outright to the minor leagues, or release him and let him become a free agent. A player cannot be removed from the 40-man roster without first clearing waivers, where all 29 other teams have a chance to claim that player, and his existing contract, for a modest waiver fee.

What are MLB options?

An option (optional assignment) allows a club to move a player on its 40-man roster to and from the minor leagues without exposing him to other teams.

Once a player is added to a team’s 40-man roster, his team has three options, or three different seasons in which the club may to send him to the minor leagues without having to clear waivers. A player on the 40-man roster playing in the minors is on optional assignment. There is no limit on the number of times a club may promote and demote a player during one option season.

A player must spend at least 20 days total in the minor leagues during one season (not including rehabilitation assignments) in order to be charged with an option. John Hicks was sent up and down a half dozen times during the 2017 season, but used just one option.

When a player is out of options, he cannot be sent to the minors without first clearing waivers. Also, a player who has accrued at least five years of major league service time may not be optioned to the minors without his consent. Hicks , as well as Bruce Rondon , Drew VerHagen , Matt Boyd and Buck Farmer are now out of options, so they will have to go on waivers if they don’t make the team in the spring.

There are three types of waivers.

Outright waivers

Outright waivers are used when a team wants to send a player to the minors but he is out of options. If the player clears waivers, he may be outrighted to the minor leagues.

However, a player may only be outrighted once during his career without his consent. When a player is outrighted for the second time or more, he may elect to become a free agent either immediately, if during the season, or as soon as the season is over, unless he is added back to the 40-man roster. This is why Tyler Collins can — and probably will — elect free agency.

A player with three years of major league service may also refuse an outright assignment and choose to become a free agent immediately or at the end of the season. Alex Presley, who has over four years of service time in the majors, rejected his outright assignment and chose free agency.

Release waivers

Release waivers are requested when a team wants to give a player his unconditional release.

Special waivers

Special Waivers , also known as revocable waivers or major league waivers, are used only between July 31 and the end of each season. These waivers are required in order to trade a player who is on the 40-man roster to another major league team after the trade deadline. Justin Verlander cleared waivers and was traded to the Houston Astros on August 31 in one of the most famous post-deadline trades ever.

What does it mean for a player to be designated for assignment?

A player may be designated for assignment (DFA) , giving the team 10 days to either trade him, or send him to the minor leagues, provided he clears waivers.

Romine and Presley were eligible for arbitration this offseason, and the Tigers were not prepared to risk going through that process with them. The same fate may await Bruce Rondon or Blaine Hardy, who are also eligible for arbitration this winter. BYB posted the projected salaries for the Tigers’ arbitration eligible players here .

Hardy still has an option year remaining, whereas Presley, Romine, and Rondon are all out of options.

The Tigers have until December 1 to offer a contract to their arbitration-eligible players. If they don’t make an offer, the player is said to be “non-tendered” and becomes a free agent.

Teams have until November 20 to submit their reserve lists of up to 40 players to the MLB office in advance of the Rule 5 draft. The Tigers will be adding some young players to the roster by that date, and will want to keep a spot or two open so that they may make a selection with their first pick in the draft on December 14.

Thursday was the day that players who are eligible for free agency became free agents, but the Tigers had no such players, having traded any would-be free agents during the season. Detroit formally declined their $16 million option on Anibal Sanchez on Thursday, paying him a $5 million buyout and making him a free agent.

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What is Designated for Assignment (DFA) Mean in Baseball?

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Of all the distinctive terms used in Major League Baseball, “Designated for assignment” must be near the top of the list for the hardest to explain to new fans. When a player is declared this, often stated as “He was DFA’d,” what exactly does it mean?

Designated for assignment refers to a player’s contract, and it means the team will immediately remove that player from its 40-man roster. For MLB fans, it means you will no longer be seeing that player on that team, at least for a decent spell.

Typically MLB teams do this to clear space for another move, or simply to rid a player from the squad entirely.

Once a player is officially DFA’d, a 7-day period begins, where the club must make a decision about the next destination for that player. In other words, it’s a way for baseball teams to put a player in temporary limbo while they try to figure out their roster situation.

During the 7-day period, that player can be sent to one of the team’s minor league affiliates; traded to another team; or placed on waivers, a list of players for other teams to acquire (under certain rules).

Basically, when you see this term attached to a player, that person is being moved off the regular MLB team at least for the time being. Sometimes, though not often, they are returned to their original team.

Baseball Club Options with Players Designated for Assignment

Once a player is DFA’d, the clock starts for the club to pick an option for that player’s immediate future. Those options are:

  • Assign the player to one of a minor league team affiliated with the club. (This is not available for all players; see Common Questions at bottom).
  • Place the player on the Waiver Wire . This move begins another type of clock ~ where other teams can take the player, under the league’s waiver rules.

2B. If the player on the waiver wire is claimed, his new team must immediately put him on their 40-man roster.

2C. If the player, over a specified period of time, is unclaimed from waivers, he can be assigned to his previous team’s minor league system. Unless: The player has enough service time in the major leagues, or has run out of minor league options (See below), in which case he becomes a free agent who can sign a contract with any team.

  • The player could be released from his contract, that is, set entirely free to go play with any other team. In such instances, the club is responsible for paying the player according to the terms of their contract together.

Types of Rosters in Major League Baseball

All this talk assumes fans know what a 40-man roster is ~ and it’s not just the list of players the current MLB team can use for games. That would be the 26-man roster.

Here’s a breakdown of the 2 types of MLB rosters, which are essentially lists of their players who either can be used in games (26-man), or who are in line to play in games in the near future as well (40-man).

26-Man Roster in MLB

The 26-man roster (or 24- or 25-man rosters in seasons past) is for players available to participate in MLB game play. Players not on the 26-man roster, such as those on injured lists, or in the minor leagues, cannot be entered into an MLB game.

So, MLB teams cannot just sign anyone off the street and instantly insert them into a game. Well, maybe not instantaneously, but at least a full day. However, even that would involve some juggling of personnel, as noted in this article.

40-Man Roster in MLB

designated for assignment process

A club’s 40-man roster is filled by a combination of players on the 26-man roster; along with players on various injured lists (7-, 10-, and 15-day injured lists); on an emergency list for bereavement or a family medical emergency; and some minor league players.

All players on a 26-man roster are also on the 40-man roster. That leaves a club 14 spots to manage all year long ~ and not just during the regular season.

The 40-man roster is important to watch during the offseason , as all those players are protected from other teams “taking” them in what’s called the Rule 5 Draft, held at the end of every year during the MLB’s Winter Meetings.

Notes on the Rule 5 Draft in Major League Baseball

Since 1920, the Rule 5 Draft has given minor league players opportunities with new MLB clubs ~ if their original club did not protect them from this draft by keeping them on the 40-man roster.

The way it works is, clubs with a spot open on their own 40-man roster select players not on 40-man rosters of the other clubs. This ends up like the regular MLB draft, with teams selecting in reverse order of the standings the previous season.

Players are eligible for selection if they are not on their team’s 40-man roster at the time of the draft, and they have either spent 4 seasons in professional baseball after signing at age 19 or older; or spent 5 seasons in pro ball after signing at age 18 or younger.

Even when drafting an eligible player, it’s not over. The new team pays the player’s previous club $100,000, places the player on its 40-man roster, AND then must keep the player on the 26-man roster for the entire next season.

This last requirement makes selecting other team’s unprotected minor league players a true challenge, as they do not yet know if that player will succeed at the major league level. If not, the team pretty much loses a roster spot through season’s end, filled by a player who can hardly contribute.

If the new club takes that player off the 26-man roster, however, it has to offer to return him to his previous team for $50,000.

Perhaps the most famous Rule 5 case was that of Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente, signed by the Brooklyn Dodgers at age 19 and buried on their Montreal, Canada minor league team, where he got all of 155 at bats .

That didn’t fool Branch Rickey, the general manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who that winter selected Clemente in the Rule 5 Draft ~ and then had to keep him on the roster that next season even as he struggled as a young foreign player competing at the game’s highest level.

Eventually the Puerto Rican hero came around, and became one of the best outfielders of all time.

Why Does ‘Designated for Assignment’ in Baseball Have to be So Complicated?

This all may seem confusing, but this system of using players in MLB game play, and also having extra players in case of injuries or emergencies, has evolved with the game. It’s a necessary structure that MLB clubs agree to abide by, for a lot of reasons, avoiding mayhem among them.

When a new fan sees these types of terms, usually in the agate type or side notes in sports sections, or sometimes added to the end of game news reports, they should consider just how hard it is to field a professional baseball team on a near-daily basis.

Baseball might look leisurely to play, but in reality the players exert parts of their body quite extensively ~ in some instances beyond what they are capable of naturally. A summary of a baseball player’s body that could force him off the field at any time:

  • Arms . This includes shoulders, elbows, wrists, and fingers ~ all essential for baseball players to compete at all. The shoulders and elbows, in particular, are punished by the act of throwing a 5-ounce ball repeatedly over extended periods of time.
  • Legs . Baseball is not a game of constant motion like the other major team sports. There is a lot of very instant starting, and quick stopping, which puts a lot of pressure on the tendons, ligaments, and joints of the legs. Knees and ankles give baseball players trouble, due to the starting-stopping, plus a lot of twisting involved in hitting and throwing.
  • Core . This includes the abdomen, hips, and upper thighs. Probably more than the other major team sports, baseball is very tough on the middle of the body , mainly due to all the twisting. Batting, in particular, requires a tremendous twist of the torso to get the bat through the hitting zone, which can impact many muscle groups, as well as the spine.
  • Back . Baseball players are susceptible to back injuries, mainly due to either overextending, or under-stretching. Often it’s a combination of both.

Add to all that the mental aspect of living life (e.g. having a wife and family) while away from home for weeks at a time, and the constant stress of having to perform well to remain in the game (and make more money). All the games, practices, stress, travel, loneliness, and more, can take a toll on any ballplayer.

In summary, any of these body (and mind) areas can take a baseball player out of service, maybe just for a few days, or a few weeks, or even many months. You can tell how often players get hurt by the MLB’s types of injured lists: the 7-day, 15-day, and 60-day injured list.

Roster Management in Baseball

All this gets us to the people responsible for getting the best players possible on the field during any MLB game. It’s not as simple as sending out the same 9 guys day in and day out. Pitchers in particular cannot pitch every single day, so extra pitchers must be brought along.

Some players might hurt a body part, but not in a major way, so all they need is a bit of rest. In these instances, pro baseball teams need a bench full of replacement players waiting to get in the game.

There’s also some competitive strategy involved. Baseball clubs can make changes to their roster daily, so if they foresee a problem upcoming, they can make roster changes to address it. Examples:

  • Lengthy road trips . A club seeing a long stretch of games away from home might carry an extra pitcher just for that period. When they return home, they might send that extra pitcher back to the high minor leagues.
  • Opposition strengths and weaknesses. The MLB regular-season schedule can be quirky, and sometimes teams play the same squads, or groups of them (e.g. from the same division), repeatedly over a short period. Maybe a club manager sees a group of upcoming games where every team has a lot of left-handed pitchers. Then, he may choose to swap out left-handed hitters, and add in more righties, just for that period of time.

In other words, the managers (and general managers) of MLB teams are constantly tinkering with their rosters, for a lot of reasons. Terms like DFA exist to add structure to all of this, in an attempt to ensure fairness for all the clubs, and avoid anarchy.

In summary, the designated for assignment system exists so MLB teams can add a newly acquired player onto their roster ~ through a free agent signing, a trade, a waiver wire grab, or to pull a player up from a minor league team; or to address players bouncing between the injured lists.

Whenever a player is getting healthy enough to return, fans usually get quite excited. But understand, for every player returning to play, another is forced to leave.

Common Questions

Question: what is the difference between being designated for assign and being “optioned”.

Answer: Remaining on the 40-man roster, or not. To be optioned means a player on the 40-man roster is moved to an “optional assignment” with one of the club’s minor league affiliates. An “option” is good for an entire season; and players only get so many options before clubs can no longer send them to a minor league team for roster management purposes. With DFA, if a player has an option remaining, that is something the club could choose to do in the 7-day “decision” period.

Q.: Why do teams only get 7 days to decide what to do with DFA’d players?

A.: It’s according to the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which is the operating structure of the MLB between clubs and players. This period is adjusted periodically upon agreement of a majority of owners and the players. For instance, in the CBA of 2012-16, the period was 10 days.

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Understanding the Meaning and Implications of Designate for Assignment (DFA) in Baseball

What does designate for assignment (dfa) mean in baseball, i. introduction.

Hey baseball fans! Today, I want to talk to you about something I recently learned while watching a TV show with my son. We were watching an episode of Honest Baseball, a fun and informative show that explores the ins and outs of our favorite sport. In that episode, they mentioned the term “Designate for Assignment (DFA).” It piqued my curiosity, so I did some research to understand what it means in baseball. Let me share what I’ve learned with you!

II. Definition and Explanation of Designate for Assignment (DFA)

A. definition of designate for assignment (dfa).

Designate for Assignment (DFA) is a term used in Major League Baseball (MLB) to describe the process of removing a player from a team’s active roster. When a player is designated for assignment, they are effectively removed from the 40-man roster, giving the team a period of time to decide what to do with the player.

B. Explanation of the purpose and process of DFA

The purpose of designating a player for assignment is to give the team flexibility in managing their roster. It allows teams to remove players from the active roster without immediately releasing or trading them. The team has several options during the DFA period, including trading the player, placing them on waivers, outright releasing them, or sending them to the minor leagues.

III. Reasons for Designating a Player for Assignment

A. performance-based reasons.

One reason a player may be designated for assignment is due to their performance on the field. If a player is struggling, not performing up to the team’s expectations, or not fitting into the team’s current plans, the team may choose to DFA them.

B. Roster management reasons

Another reason for designating a player for assignment is roster management. Sometimes, teams have too many players at a certain position or need to make room on the roster for other players, such as newly acquired players or returning players from injury.

C. Contract and financial reasons

Contract and financial considerations can also play a role in designating a player for assignment. If a player has a large contract and is not performing well, the team may choose to DFA them to alleviate the financial burden. Additionally, if a team wants to avoid paying a player’s salary in full, they may designate them for assignment.

IV. Implications of Designating a Player for Assignment

A. potential outcomes for a dfa’d player.

When a player is designated for assignment, several potential outcomes may occur. The player can be traded to another team within the designated period, claimed off waivers by another team, outright released, or assigned to the team’s minor league system if they clear waivers and the team decides to keep them.

B. Ramifications for the team and organization

Designating a player for assignment has ramifications for both the team and the organization. It allows the team to address their roster needs and potentially improve their performance on the field. However, it can also impact team dynamics and player morale, as being DFA’d can be a difficult and uncertain experience for a player.

V. DFA Process and Timeline

A. steps involved in the dfa process.

The DFA process involves several steps. First, the team must officially notify the player that they have been designated for assignment. The player is then removed from the active roster and another player is generally called up from the minor leagues to fill the vacant spot. The team has a specific period, usually 7-10 days, to decide what to do with the DFA’d player.

B. Timeline for a player designated for assignment

Once a player has been designated for assignment, the clock starts ticking. The team has a designated period to either trade, waive, or release the player. If the player is not claimed off waivers or traded within this timeframe, they can be outright released or assigned to the minor leagues, depending on the team’s decision.

VI. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A. what happens to a player after being designated for assignment.

After being designated for assignment, the player is removed from the team’s active roster and has a designated period for the team to decide their next step. This period is usually 7-10 days. The player can be traded, placed on waivers, outright released, or sent to the minor leagues.

B. Can a designated player refuse assignment and become a free agent?

A designated player cannot refuse assignment and become a free agent without the team’s consent. If a player is designated for assignment and refuses to report or accept a minor league assignment, the team may choose to release the player. However, in most cases, players are not able to become free agents simply by refusing an assignment.

C. Can a DFA’d player be traded or released?

Yes, a player who has been designated for assignment can be traded or released by the team. If another team is interested in acquiring the player, they can work out a trade within the designated period. If no trade is made, the team can release the player, making them a free agent.

D. How does a team fill the roster spot after designating a player for assignment?

After designating a player for assignment, the team typically calls up a player from their minor league system to fill the vacant spot on the active roster. This allows the team to maintain a full roster and continue their season without any gaps.

E. How often do players get claimed off waivers after being designated for assignment?

The frequency of players getting claimed off waivers after being designated for assignment varies. It depends on factors such as the player’s performance, contract, and the needs of other teams. Some players may be claimed quickly, while others may clear waivers and become free agents if no team chooses to claim them.

F. Can a player designated for assignment be reinstated to the roster?

Yes, a player designated for assignment can be reinstated to the roster if the team decides to keep them. If the player clears waivers and is not traded or released, they can be assigned to the team’s minor league system. From there, they can work their way back to the major leagues and be called up when the team deems it appropriate.

VII. Conclusion

A. recap of the significance of designate for assignment (dfa) in baseball.

Designate for Assignment (DFA) is an important term in the world of baseball. It allows teams to temporarily remove players from the active roster and make roster adjustments based on performance, roster management, and financial considerations.

B. Final thoughts on the impact of DFA on players and teams

DFA can have a significant impact on both players and teams. For players, it can be a challenging and uncertain experience. However, it also gives them an opportunity to showcase their skills and potentially make a comeback. For teams, DFA provides the flexibility needed to optimize their roster and improve their chances of success on the field.

Yes, a player designated for assignment can be reinstated to the roster if the team decides to keep them. If the player clears waivers and is

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What does designated for assignment mean in mlb what to know about madison bumgarner.

What’s next for Madison Bumgarner and the Diamondbacks? Here’s a look at the MLB designated for assignment process.

The Arizona Diamondbacks designated pitcher Madison Bumgarner for assignment on Thursday after his latest rough outing on Wednesday.

Bumgarner is 0-3 on the season with a 10.26 ERA in 16.2 innings over four starts. He has given up 25 hits and 19 earned runs, while walking 15 and striking out 10.

What’s next for the pitcher and the Arizona Diamondbacks?

Here’s a look at the designated for assignment process and what it means for Bumgarner and his MLB team.

What does designated for assignment (DFA) mean in baseball?

The MLB.com glossary explains the process as follows: “When a player’s contract is designated for assignment — often abbreviated “DFA” — that player is immediately removed from his club’s 40-man roster. Within seven days of the transaction (had been 10 days under the 2012-16 Collective Bargaining Agreement), the player can either be traded or placed on irrevocable outright waivers.”

What happens if the player is claimed off waivers by another team?

The glossary explains the process as follows: “If the player is claimed off said waivers by another club, he is immediately added to that team’s 40-man roster, at which point he can be optioned to the Minor Leagues (if he has Minor League options remaining) or assigned to his new team’s 26-man roster. If the player clears waivers, he may be sent outright to the Minor Leagues or released. Players with more than three years of Major League service time or who have been previously outrighted may reject the outright assignment in favor of free agency. Clubs may utilize this option to clear a spot on the 40-man roster — typically with the intention of adding a newly acquired player (via trade or free agency), a Minor Leaguer or a player being activated from the 60-day injured list.”

What are the specifics of Madison Bumgarner’s DFA?

The Arizona Republic’s Nick Piecoro explained the specifics regarding the situation for Bumgarner and the Diamondbacks in his story detailing the pitcher being designated for assignment on Thursday.

Story continues

He wrote: “Bumgarner is likely to be placed on waivers soon, if he hasn’t been already, and would become a free agent once he clears. He could then sign with another team for a prorated portion of the league minimum ($720,000). He is not likely to be claimed or traded given the amount of money still owed to him by the Diamondbacks.”

How much do the Diamondbacks owe Madison Bumgarner?

Bumgarner signed a 5-year, $85 million contract with the Diamondbacks in December of 2019. He is still owed $34 million through next season. In cutting ties with Bumgarner, the Diamondbacks are setting a new club record for dead money, exceeding the $22 million they ate when releasing right-hander Russ Ortiz during the 2006 season.

More on Madison Bumgarner and the Diamondbacks

Madison Bumgarner designated for assignment by Diamondbacks

Why the Diamondbacks did not call up Brandon Pfaadt to replace Madison Bumgarner

With sense of urgency, Diamondbacks move on from struggling Madison Bumgarner

Arizona Diamondbacks fans sound off: Madison Bumgarner must be removed from rotation

Reach Jeremy Cluff at  [email protected] . Follow him on Twitter  @Jeremy_Cluff.

Support local journalism: Subscribe to  azcentral.com  today.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: What does DFA mean in baseball? What’s next for Madison Bumgarner

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Twins' Daniel Duarte: Designated for assignment

Duarte was designated for assignment by the Twins on Wednesday, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports.

The Twins did some 40-man roster shuffling and Duarte is one of the casualties. He was just claimed off waivers last week and will now go through the waiver process again.

Twins' Daniel Duarte: Sent to Triple-A

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Detroit Tigers add new outfielder to spring training battle

Tigers claim tj hopkins, designate kolton ingram for assignment.

Derick Hutchinson , Lead Digital Editor

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers have added a new outfielder to the spring training battle for their final bench spot.

Most of the position players who will make the Opening Day roster for Detroit are already set in stone. Jake Rogers , Spencer Torkelson , Javier Baez , Mark Canha , Parker Meadows , Riley Greene , and Kerry Carpenter will be in the starting lineup.

Colt Keith is likely to open the season as the starting second baseman, and Matt Vierling will either share the third base job with Zach McKinstry or have it all to himself. Either way, both will make the roster.

Andy Ibanez will compliment McKinstry as a right-handed utility player off the bench, and Carson Kelly will be the backup catcher.

That leaves just one spot left for Akil Baddoo, Justyn-Henry Malloy, Andre Lipcius, Ryan Kreidler, Eddys Leonard, or Wenceel Perez.

And now, you can add another name to that mix.

Tigers claim TJ Hopkins

On Tuesday afternoon, Feb. 20, 2024, the Tigers claimed 27-year-old outfielder T.J. Hopkins off waivers from the San Francisco Giants. Hopkins made his brief MLB debut with the Reds last season and was traded to the Giants on Dec. 19 for a player to be named later.

The Giants designated Hopkins for assignment on Feb. 13 after trading for Toronto’s Otto Lopez.

Hopkins struck out in 17 of his 44 MLB plate appearances last season (38.6%) in Cincinnati, but he had an excellent season with Triple-A Louisville.

In 94 games with the Bats in 2023, Hopkins hit .308 with a .411 on-base percentage and .514 slugging percentage. He walked 55 times compared to 94 strikeouts and finished with 16 homers, 18 doubles, and 102 hits overall.

It’s easy to see why president Scott Harris and general manager Jeff Greenberg were attracted to Hopkins. His 14% walk rate aligns with their offensive vision, and the 23.9% strikeout rate isn’t crippling.

Hopkins fits the mold of what the Tigers are looking for in their final bench piece. Since three of their four primary outfielders -- Meadows, Greene, and Carpenter -- are left-handed hitters, the player who earns the final bench spot is likely to be right-handed.

That could favor Malloy, a rising prospect with elite on-base metrics of his own, but Hopkins gives the Tigers a little bit of insurance in case Malloy struggles this spring.

Hopkins has plenty of minor-league experience in both corner outfield spots. He played six games in left and nine games in right for the Reds last year.

Although his previous numbers were solid, 2023 was a breakout season for Hopkins. He hit 21 homers and 26 doubles with a .792 OPS in 2022 while spending time at Double-A and Triple-A, and posted a .777 OPS at Double-A in 2021.

Hopkins was a ninth-round pick by the Reds out of the University of South Carolina in 2019.

Tigers designate Kolton Ingram for assignment

To make room for Hopkins on the 40-man roster, the Tigers designated Kolton Ingram for assignment. Ingram was selected off waivers from the Angels on Feb. 5, and the Tigers traded Nick Maton to the Orioles a couple of days later to make room for him.

Like Hopkins, Ingram had some appealing minor-league stats but struggled during a very brief MLB debut in 2023.

In 61 innings between Double-A and Triple-A last year, Ingram posted a 2.95 ERA and 1.23 WHIP with 77 strikeouts in 61 innings. He struck out 11.1 batters per nine in 198.2 career minor-league innings, but also walked 3.9.

Copyright 2024 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit - All rights reserved.

About the Author:

Derick hutchinson.

Derick is the Lead Digital Editor for ClickOnDetroit and has been with Local 4 News since April 2013. Derick specializes in breaking news, crime and local sports.

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Sports24 News

Pirates Acquire Canaan Smith-Njigba From Mariners

T he Pirates have acquired Canaan Smith-Njigba through the waiver process from the Mariners, as confirmed by official statements from both teams. The Mariners had previously designated the outfielder for assignment over the weekend. In a corresponding transaction, the Pirates have transferred right-handed pitcher JT Brubaker to the 60-day injured list. Stay tuned for further updates.

According to the Source mlbtraderumors.com

O conteúdo Pirates Acquire Canaan Smith-Njigba From Mariners aparece primeiro em Global Sports .

Pirates Acquire Canaan Smith-Njigba From Mariners

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    Designated for assignment (DFA) is a term used in baseball to describe a move by a team to remove a player from its active roster. The player is then placed on the team's reserve list, where they can remain until the team either releases the player or trades them. The term is used by Major League Baseball (MLB) and Minor League Baseball (MiLB).

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    Here's a look at the MLB designated for assignment process. The Arizona Diamondbacks designated pitcher Madison Bumgarner for assignment on Thursday after his latest rough outing on Wednesday. Bumgarner is 0-3 on the season with a 10.26 ERA in 16.2 innings over four starts. He has given up 25 hits and 19 earned runs, while walking 15 and ...

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