**Austin Davis Becomes Free Agent**
Left-handed pitcher Austin Davis has chosen free agency after clearing waivers, as reported by Jeff Sanders of the San Diego Union-Tribune. Davis, 31, was designated for assignment last week as the Padres adjusted their roster post-trade deadline.
Davis, a 12th-round draft pick by the Phillies in 2014, made his major league debut in 2018. His rookie year was his most successful, with 34 2/3 innings pitched for Philadelphia, a 4.15 ERA, and a solid 3.68 FIP due to a 25.2% strikeout rate. However, his performance declined after that, allowing 22 runs in 18 appearances and struggling between Triple-A and the majors until he was traded to the Pirates in 2020.
Since his time with the Phillies, Davis has played for the Pirates, Red Sox, and Twins, ending the 2022 season with a cumulative 5.44 ERA over 86 innings, despite a decent 24.2% strikeout rate. His tenure with the Twins was particularly poor, leading to his designation for assignment and subsequent free agency.
Davis briefly joined the Astros on a minor league deal but struggled at Triple-A with an 11.22 ERA in 25 2/3 innings. He then moved to independent baseball, performing well with a 3.62 ERA and a strong 26.7% strikeout rate over nine starts.
Returning to affiliated baseball, Davis signed with the Padres in February on a minor league deal. He posted impressive numbers with the Padres’ Triple-A affiliate, recording a 3.10 ERA and a 29.8% strikeout rate. However, his major league stint in late June was less successful, with a 9.00 ERA over seven innings, marked by more walks (five) than strikeouts (six).
As a free agent again, Davis may find another opportunity with a team seeking bullpen depth, particularly given his solid Triple-A performance and left-handedness.
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