New York options Jeff Weaver to the minors and waives Jesse Orosco.

NEW YORK (AP) – Jeff Weaver was optioned to Class A Tampa of the Florida State League on Tuesday by the New York Yankees, who also designated Jesse Orosco for assignment.

The moves cleared space for Gabe White, who was activated from the disabled list, and Felix Heredia, who was due to report later Tuesday, a day after he was claimed on waivers from Cincinnati.

Weaver and Orosco have both pitched poorly this year. Weaver, 7-9 with a 5.85 ERA, lost his spot in the rotation last week when Jose Contreras was activated and gave up a home run Monday night in relief against Baltimore.

Orosco, at 46 the oldest player in the major leagues, had a 10.38 ERA in 15 games since the Yankees acquired him from San Diego. Weaver was told he will be recalled Sept. 1, when active rosters expand to 40. Weaver can still be eligible for the postseason because the Yankees have two pitchers on the disabled list.

AP-ES-08-26-03 1616EDT