Connelly, Leon join Cedar Rapids

Left-hander P.J. Connelly and right-hander Sammy Leon are joining the Cedar Rapids Kernels from extended spring training, effective April 27th. Pedro Herrera was placed on the disabled list and Robert Romero has been released.

To make room on the active roster, it was also announced that RHP Pedro Herrera has been placed on the DL with tendonitis in his right bicep. In six games for the Kernels, Herrera has a 1-0 record and 4.50 ERA. In eight innings, he’s allowed seven hits, four runs, struck out seven and walked one.

It was also announced today by Tony Reagins, Director of Player Development for the Angels, that Robert Romero has been released by the club.

LHP P.J. Connelly was signed by the Angels as a non-drafted free agent on February 8, 2006 out of East Carolina University. The 6-4 lefty spent 2006 at Orem where he posted a 4-2 record and 2.95 ERA in 19 relief appearances for the Owlz. In 36.2 IP, he allowed 35 hits, 20 runs (12 earned), walked 13 and struck out 33.

RHP Sammy Leon was signed by the Angels as a non-drafted free agent on March 21, 2003. A native of La Romana DR, he finished 2006 with a 2-1 record and 3.38 ERA in 16 relief appearances with the AZL Angels. In 26.2 IP, he gave up 27 hits and 11 runs (10 earned) with 18 K’s and 15 walks.

Connelly and Leon are expected to arrive in Cedar Rapids today and be available for tonight’s DH with the Lansing Lugnuts starting at 5:30 pm. The move leaves the Kernels roster at 25 active players, the MWL maximum.