Slaton Is Released by Angels; Moore Activated, Cook Called Up

Pitcher Jim Slaton, a veteran of 16 major league seasons, was released by the Angels on Monday as the team made room for relief pitcher Donnie Moore’s reinstatement from the disabled list and the addition of right-handed starter Mike Cook from its Double-A team in Midland, Tex.

Reliever T. R. Bryden’s contract was assigned to Triple-A affiliate Edmonton to complete the roster moves.

“I can handle optioning kids out,” Manager Gene Mauch said. “Even that’s not pleasant, but this (releasing Slaton) really hurts. Who the hell is that smart to know if Jim Slaton can still help a major league club?

“He did great work for us early this year, early last year and early the year before that.”

Slaton, who was 4-6 with a 5.65 earned-run average after a 4-1 start this season, was not in the Angel clubhouse Monday.

“When (General Manager Mike) Port contacted him by phone, he said he’d rather not come out tonight,” Mauch said. “He’ll be here tomorrow. Maybe he’ll go someplace and help someone else. I hope whatever he wants happens for him.”

If Slaton, 36, decides to retire, he’ll finish his career with a record of 151-158.

Cook, 22, was 4-6 with a 3.50 ERA in 15 starts at Midland. He will start against Chicago’s Floyd Bannister tonight.