SARASOTA, Fla. -- The Baltimore Orioles claimed right-handed pitcher Hector Velazquez on waivers from the Boston Red Sox on Sunday.

The 31-year-old was 11-7 with a 3.90 ERA in 89 games in the last three seasons with Boston, including 19 starts.

Velazquez will compete for a spot on the Orioles' staff. One candidate, right-hander Evan Phillips, will begin the season on the injured list due to right elbow soreness.