Indians put reliever Hernandez on waivers

CLEVELAND (AP) — Reliever Roberto Hernandez was put on unconditional release waivers Thursday by the Cleveland Indians.

The 42-year-old Hernandez, whose 326 saves are 11th on the career list, was designated for assignment on June 20. He went 3-1 with 6.23 ERA in 28 games after signing a $3.5 million, one-year contract as a free agent in December.

The right-hander has pitched for nine major league teams since being called up in 1991 by the Chicago White Sox. He is 67-69 with a 3.39 ERA.

Cleveland is responsible for the remainder of his $3.3 million salary this year and a $200,000 buyout of a $3.7 million team option for 2008.

Left fielder David Dellucci had successful surgery to remove a torn tendon from his left hamstring.

The surgery was performed at the Cleveland Clinic. Dellucci, injured running out a ground ball against Philadelphia on June 19, is expected to return this season.

Dellucci signed a three-year contract as a free agent in December. He is hitting .234 with four home runs and 20 RBIs in 54 games.