Athletics designate ex-closer Jim Johnson for assignment

The Oakland Athletics designated pitcher Jim Johnson for assignment on Thursday. The A's now have 10 days to waive, trade or release their former closer, who has struggled mightily in his first season in Oakland.

The Oakland Athletics designated pitcher Jim Johnson for assignment on Thursday, the team announced. 

The A's now have 10 days to waive, trade or release their former closer, who has struggled mightily in his first season in Oakland. Johnson is owed $10 million this season.

Johnson came to the Athletics last offseason in a trade for Jemile Weeks and David Freitas after five seasons with the Baltimore Orioles. He was acquired to be the A's closer after leading the majors in saves in both 2012 and 2013, but lost the job in April after just eight games. 

His 6.92 ERA in 2014 is far above his career average of 3.45, and he has allowed 60 hits in 40.1 innings. 

More: Who's buying and selling in the American League?

Oakland recalled 29-year-old reliever Evan Scribner from Triple-A Sacramento to replace Johnson on the roster. Scribner is 4-1 with a 3.35 ERA at Triple-A and had a 4.39 ERA in 18 games with the Athletics in 2013.

- Molly Geary