Rays leave closer Percival off roster

Oct 2, 2008 - 3:18 PM ST. PETERSBURG, Florida (Ticker) - Tampa Bay Rays closer Troy Percival was left off the roster for the American League Division Series against the Chicago White Sox.

Percival, who has converted 28-of-32 save opportunities this season, has been bothered by a series of injuries this season, including a nagging back ailment during the final month.

Knee and hamstring injuries landed the 39-year-old closer on the disabled list three times this season, and a 6.11 ERA after the All-Star break did not exactly strengthen Percival's case to be included on the roster.

Percival does not have a save since September 9 against Boston.

Dan Wheeler and Grant Balfour likely will handle the closer's role.

Rookie lefthander David Price, who spent most of the season in the minor leagues, was included on the postseason roster.

The No. 1 overall pick in 2007, Price made five appearances, included one start, since he was called up in September.

Price allowed four runs and nine hits in 14 innings, striking out 12 and walking four while posting a 1.93 ERA.

A 6-6, 225-pound lefthander, made a rapid rise through the minor league ranks this season. He started his professional career this spring with Class A Vero Beach, moved up to Class AA Montgomery in July and then to Durham in August.

In the three stints combined, he went 12-1 with a 2.30 ERA, striking out 109 batters in 109 2/3 innings. He gave up just 30 hits and issued 32 walks.