Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Justin Upton has been claimed on waivers by an unidentified team just one day before his birthday, according to Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com.
While this news is undoubtedly noteworthy, a deal isn't exactly imminent as it's commonplace for teams to simply test the waters by passing their players through the trade waivers during this time of year. The D-backs still have the option of pulling him back if a trade cannot be struck.
Outspoken managing partner Ken Kendrick also shared with reporters last month that it's "a reasonable assumption" that Upton remains with the team for the rest of 2012.
Arizona has until Sunday to work out a possible deal but the 24-year-old former All-Star can block moves to the Yankees, Red Sox, Cubs and Indians as part of his contract. Upton has a .273/.355/.397 line through 472 plate appearances this season. His 79 runs rank fifth best in the National League.
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