The Angels placed pitcher Ryan Madson on unconditional release waivers Tuesday.

Madson, who had Tommy John surgery on his left elbow in April 2012, spent the entire season on the disabled list after signing an incentive-laden one-year contract. The Angels owe him the remainder of his $3.5 million base salary.

The 32-year-old pitcher had been rehabbing in Arizona. He pitched one inning of one rehab game for the Single-A Inland Empire 66ers on May 13, but the subsequent pain in his elbow stalled his progress.

“We signed Ryan with the belief that he would return to the mound and positively impact our team,” Angels general manager Jerry Dipoto said in a statement released by the team. “It became increasingly more apparent to us that he would not pitch for the Angels this season. Our medical team has spent much time, effort and resources in the effort to facilitate a healthy return. It’s been a long and difficult process for all involved.

“I spoke to Ryan earlier today and informed him of our decision. This was an upside gamble that I deemed worth the risk and unfortunately it did not transpire for either Ryan or the club.”