Guardians release Carlos Santana after unclaimed waivers

The Cleveland Guardians released veteran first baseman Carlos Santana on Tuesday after he went unclaimed on outright waivers, the team announced, ending his third stint with the club where he debuted in 2010. The 39 year old switch hitter is now a free agent and can sign with any club for the prorated league minimum for the remainder of the season; if he signs before Sept. 1 he would be eligible for postseason play with a new team.

Santana had been on a one year, $12 million contract and roughly $2.13 million remained after the move. Teams had 48 hours to place a claim and assume the remaining salary, but no claim materialized. He was not designated for assignment when placed on waivers and was eligible to play while the waiver period ran. With the waiver window closed, Cleveland reinstated infielder Daniel Schneemann from the paternity list to take Santana's spot on the active roster.

Offensively Santana struggled this season, finishing his Cleveland run with a .225/.316/.333 slash line in 455 plate appearances, 11 home runs and 52 RBIs. He has been particularly cold in the second half, posting a roughly .509 OPS with no home runs and just three extra base hits in 27 games, and...