The Kansas City Royals today announced that they have requested Unconditional Release Waivers on first baseman/DH Mike Jacobs and left-handed pitcher John Bale. The moves were made prior to this morning?s Rule 5 Draft in Indianapolis, Ind., putting the Royals? Major League roster at 38 prior to their selection. Jacobs, 29, hit .228 with 19 home runs and 61 RBI in 2009 for the Royals.

The Red Sox have claimed right-hander Ramon Ramirez off waivers from the Rays. Boston already has a pitcher on their roster by the name of Ramon Ramirez. The newly acquired Ramirez was 0-0 with a 3.65 ERA in 11 games for Cincinnati last season. Tampa Bay claimed him on waivers from the Reds in November, then released him last week.