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Flushing, NY (SportsNetwork.com) - Neftali Feliz, the 2010 American League Rookie of the Year whose career has been derailed by injuries in recent years, was recalled from the minor leagues by the Texas Rangers on Friday.

The Rangers promoted Feliz, who saved 40 games as a rookie while helping Texas to its first-ever World Series appearance, from Triple-A Round Rock while optioning reliever Ben Rowen to the Express.

Feliz followed up his outstanding 2010 season by saving 32 games the following year, then was moved to the starting rotation when the Rangers signed veteran closer Joe Nathan in 2012. The hard-throwing right-hander pitched in just eight games that season before developing elbow problems that eventually required Tommy John surgery.

The 26-year-old made only six appearances for Texas last season while still making his way back from the procedure. Feliz had spent all of 2014 in Round Rock, compiling a 1-1 record with a 3.14 ERA and seven saves.

Rowen allowed four earned runs in 8 2/3 innings over eight appearances in his first major league action.

The Rangers also announced Friday that the team has released pitcher Joe Saunders, three days after the club designated the veteran lefty for assignment.

Saunders struggled mightily in eight starts this season, going 0-5 with a 6.13 ERA and permitting a .356 batting average against.