Devil Rays Dump Stocker Too Many Errors For Former CV Standout; Gooden Also Let Go

The Tampa Bay Devil Rays released regular shortstop Kevin Stocker and pitcher Doc Gooden Thursday, possibly ending the career of Gooden, a former New York Mets pitching star who once appeared destined for the Hall of Fame.

The Devil Rays recalled infielder Felix Martinez and selected pitcher Doug Creek from Triple-A Durham to replace them.

Stocker, 30, is in his eighth major-league season. The former Central Valley High and University of Washington star has committed 11 errors in 40 games this season, including two in Tama Bay’s 9-2 loss to Oakland on Wednesday night. He is batting .263.

“It’s no secret I’m here for my defense,” Stocker said. “I’ve made 11 errors in six weeks. There’s something wrong. I have to get my head straight. I feel bad I didn’t get the job done.”

Stocker was acquired from the Philadelphia Phillies for outfielder Bobby Abreu on Nov. 18, 1997.

Gooden, 35, was acquired from the Houston Astros on April 13 for cash considerations, giving the former Cy Young Award winner an opportunity to pitch in his hometown. However, the St. Petersburg resident went 2-3 with 6.63 ERA in eight starts for the Devil Rays.

He won his first two decisions, then went 0-3 and allowed 10 homers, 25 runs and 34 hits in 21 innings.

Gooden made one start for the Astros this season and was not involved in the decision.

Gooden, whose career has been compromised by arm problems and drug use, is 190-110 in a major league career that began in 1984 with the Mets.