UPDATE, 3:47: The A's have confirmed that it's a waiver claim, and assistant GM David Forst told the Chronicle: "We felt like it was a good opportunity to see some guys in Triple-A the last month of the season, and it gives Russ the chance to pitch in a pennant race. That's something he deserves at this point in his career. He's done a great job for us and he's been a great mentor for our youngsters."

The Rays have made no announcement, and have not said what they will do to make yet more room on the 25- and 40-man rosters.

DEVELOPING: The Rays continue to make moves, acquiring RH reliever Russ Springer from Oakland, according to the San Francisco Chronicle's Susan Slusser.

Springer told Slusser the Rays claimed him on waivers, and he was on his way to the airport to get to Seattle for tonight's game.

Springer, 40, was 0-1 with a 4.10 ERA in 48 games for the A's this season. He is making $3.3-million this season, so the Rays will assume the approximate $1-million or remaining.

 He has been in the majors for 17 seasons, pitching for the Yankees, Angels, Phillies, Astros (twice), Braves, D-backs, Cardinals (twice) and A's.