Blanton granted unconditional release by Angels

The Angels granted right-hander Joe Blanton his unconditional release on Wednesday morning.

Blanton appeared in four Cactus League games for the Halos this spring, amassing a 7.08 ERA in 20 1/3 innings spanning five appearances (four starts).

The 10-year veteran, who signed a two-year deal with the Angels as a free agent in December 2012, went 2-14 with a 6.04 ERA last season, splitting time between the rotation and the bullpen. With one year remaining on his contract, he is owed $8.5 million, including a $1 million buyout.