Miami Marlins return Rule 5 draft pick Braulio Lara to Tampa Bay Rays

Braulio Lara became the latest casualty from the Miami Marlins Spring Training roster that started with 74 players. The Marlins have returned left-handed pitcher Braulio Lara to the Tampa Bay Rays.

Feb 22, 2013; Jupiter, FL, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher Braulio Lara (51) poses for a picture during photo day at Roger Dean Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

The Marlins picked Lara in the first round of the MLB’s Rule 5 draft from the Rays organization. Lara made four apperances for the Marlins this spring, posting a 4.50 ERA. Lara struck out and walked two hitters in his five innings of work.

He was already considered a long shot to make the team when camp opened. He did not overly impress the Marlins with his performance, as his command was still a major issue.

The cost for each Rule 5 pick is $50,000. The guidelines of the Rule 5 Draft mandate that the player must be on the Marlins’ active roster. If either one is not, he will then be offered back to his original team for $25,000.

Lara served primarily as a starter in the Rays lower minor leagues the past two seasons. Starting was not looking good for him however, as he struggled with a 4.94 and 5.70 ERA in the last two years

Lara was projected to be a top-5 pick in the Rul3 5 draft, somehow fell to the Marlins with their second pick.

The Marlins first pick in the Rule 5 draft, Alfredo Silverio is still with the team. He is expected to start the season on the DL and could make an impact, if healthy later on in the season.