CLEVELAND — Carlos Santana will forever be a legend in the storied history of Cleveland baseball. But on Thursday, the third chapter of the first baseman’s decorated career with the franchise came to a close.
The Guardians announced they released Santana, a decision that followed the club placing the 39-year-old on outright waivers on Tuesday. Santana may now sign with another team as a free agent. He will be eligible for the postseason should he land with a new club by Sept. 1.
“Obviously a tough day,” manager Stephen Vogt said. “What Carlos Santana has meant to this organization and to our team can’t be put into words. He’s one of the best people I’ve met in the game, one of the best teammates, one of the best players.”
Santana (who has spent 11 of his 16 seasons in the Majors with Cl