Braves outright Dian Toscano, officially sign Tyler Flowers

The Atlanta Braves officially announced the signing of catcher Tyler Flowers on Wednesday. To make room on the 40-man roster, Atlanta outrighted outfielder Dian Toscano who passed through waivers.

Flowers is expected to split time at catcher with A.J. Pierzynski. He hit .239 with nine homers and 39 RBIs for the White Sox last season. Flowers deal is for two years with a club option for 2018.

The Braves signed Toscano to a four-year deal worth $6 million prior to last season, but visa issues kept him sidelined until November. He hasn't played professionally now in three years and will attempt to work his way back into Atlanta's outfield picture in the minor leagues. The Braves simply couldn't afford to have him continue to tie up a 40-man roster spot.

Toscano is currently playing winter ball in Puerto Rico and is hitting .200 (5-for-25) with a double, two walks and 10 strikeouts.