Plouffe traded to Rays

Infielder Trevor Plouffe and cash were dealt to the Tampa Bay Rays on Saturday morning in a trade that will save the A’s money this season and could eventually net the franchise a prospect.

Sources told The Chronicle that the A’s agreed to pay $2 million-plus of the more than $3 million remaining on the 2017 salary of Plouffe, who was designated for assignment this week after batting just .214 in 58 games.

“For a guy who wasn’t here very long, he is a guy who was very impactful,” said A’s manager Bob Melvin, who exchanged text messages with Plouffe before Saturday’s 5-2 victory over the Yankees. “All of our guys are really pulling for him, as am I.

“I’m glad he got another opportunity right away.”

Brady arrives: Michael Brady was called up from Triple-A Nashville, adding immediate depth to the A’s bullpen and completing his winding path to the big leagues.

Already playing for his fourth franchise and at his third position since starting his career in 2009, the 30-year-old was promoted to the majors for the first time. The former Cal shortstop had a brief failed attempt at catching before converting to pitching during

his second professional season.

“You can’t have too many Cal guys,” joked Melvin, who played in Berkeley from 198081.

Brady was 3-1 with a 3.67 ERA and 42 strikeouts to just six walks for Nashville. To clear space for him on the 40man roster, the A’s designated outfielder Ryan LaMarre for assignment.

Injury updates: Marcus Semien took pregame grounders as he continued to recover from right wrist surgery in mid-April. Melvin said the shortstop could go on a rehab assignment when the A’s leave for their road trip this week and could be back with the big club early next month. “He’s great,” Melvin said. “He’s champing at the bit.” … Melvin said Chris Bassitt looked great during a 25-pitch pregame bullpen session. The right-hander is attempting to come back from Tommy John surgery in May 2016, and the manager said Bassitt could return as a reliever.