Candiotti Released as Angels Set Roster

The Angels released veteran knuckleballer Tom Candiotti after Saturday’s exhibition game and purchased the contracts of left-hander Kent Mercker and infielder Benji Gil, moves that brought their roster to the required 25.

Though he pitched decently, particularly in relief, Candiotti would have kept young pitchers Mike Fyhrie or Lou Pote out of the major leagues. Both made the opening-day roster.

“This is not an easy day,” said Manager Mike Scioscia, a teammate of Candiotti’s with the Dodgers in 1992. “Tom is a friend. I have the utmost respect for him.”

Candiotti, 42, said he would like to continue a professional career that began more than 20 years ago. He’s disappointed that it won’t be with the Angels.

“I don’t know if ‘odd guy out’ is right,” he said with a smile. “But, the old guy is out.”

Through much of camp, Angel management liked Candiotti because of the insurance he provided a young pitching staff. However, he would not have gone to the minor leagues and the Angels had no room for him, even on a 12-man staff. Rookie Ramon Ortiz is due off the disabled list in 10 days, further complicating the situation.

“It was a luxury we couldn’t afford,” Scioscia said.