New York Yankees designate pitcher Chris Capuano for assignment

Chris Capuano gave up five runs in less than an inning on Wednesday.

The New York Yankees have designated 36-year-old left-handed pitcher Chris Capuano for assignment, the team announced Wednesday.

Capuano, who walked five and gave up five runs in less than an inning of work on Tuesday night, is likely to clear waivers and be traded before the July 31 deadline.

Capuano signed a one-year, $5 million contract with the Yankees during the offseason, and was expected to be the team's fifth starter this year. The pitcher started the 2015 campaign on the disabled list, and rejoined the team in May. Capuano posted a 0-4 record with a 6.97 ERA for the Yankees in 16 appearances this season as both a starter and reliever.

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In his place, the Yankees have added 27-year-old relief pitcher Caleb Cotham, who will make his Major League debut with New York. Cotham was drafted by the Yankees in the fifth round of the 2009 MLB draft out of Vanderbilt University. In 45.2 innings of relief this year between Double-A and AAA, Cotham posted an ERA of 2.17. In his six minor league seasons, Cotham was 18-22 with a 3.99 ERA. 

- Kayla Lombardo