Padres catcher Michael Barrett cleared waivers and opted for free agency, rather than go to the minors. Barrett's best years came with the Cubs, but ended abruptly in 2007 due Barrett's poor relationship with Lou Piniella, and several pitchers in the rotation. He struggled with the Padres, but scouts say he could not find his swing and would rebound in 2008. However, he was hit with a season ending injury and only hit .202 in 30 games.
Barrett's hitting may not be completely lost, but his defense surely hasn't improved. I'm sure there will be a team willing to take a chance on him, perhaps the Nationals, but he could be on a track to the minors, which would be a shame for the eleven year veteran.
This story was approved by MLB Rumors.