TORONTO — Vladimir Guerrero is going to Las Vegas, moving him one step closer to a return to the major leagues with the Blue Jays.
Toronto assigned the 37-year-old to its Triple-A affiliate Friday. Guerrero, who signed a minor-league deal with Toronto on May 10, is scheduled to play tonight when the 51s host Reno.
A 16-year veteran, Guerrero reported to extended spring training in Florida after signing with the Blue Jays. He appeared in four games with Single-A Dunedin, batting .450 (9-for-20) with a double, four homers and eight RBIs.
Prior going to Triple-A • TORONTO — Six years after he last pitched in the major leagues, Mark Prior has been promoted to Triple-A.
Boston assigned the oft-injured right-hander to its Triple-A affiliate in Pawtucket. Prior, the second pick in the 2001 draft by the Cubs who signed a minor-league contract with the Red Sox on May 2, had been at extended spring training in Florida.
Footnotes. Orioles outfielder Nick Markakis had surgery for a broken right wrist and is expected to be out three to four weeks. … The Royals recalled infielder Yuniesky Betancourt from his minor-league rehab assignment and optioned Irving Falu to Triple-A Omaha. … Indians manager Manny Acta said catcher Carlos Santana has made progress from his concussion and should be in the lineup next week. … The Cubs claimed right-handed reliever Jairo Asencio off waivers from the Indians. … The Padres designated 37-year-old pitcher Jeff Suppan for assignment.
