Manny a free agent after Texas releases him

The Rangers released veteran slugger-turned-journeyman Manny Ramirez after 30 games with their Triple-A affiliate in Round Rock.

The 41-year-old outfielder hit .259 in his time with Round Rock, driving in 13 runs and hitting three homers.

"Based on our evaluation, there was not a spot for Manny on the club at this time," Rangers general manager Jon Daniels said. "We released him so he could pursue other opportunities if he so chooses."

The Rangers agreed to terms with Ramirez on a Minor League contract in early June after his stint with the EDA Rhinos of the Taiwan Professional Baseball League. He hit .352 with eight home runs and 43 RBIs in 49 games before leaving the club on June 19.

In 19 big league seasons, the 12-time All-Star is a .312 hitter with 555 home runs (14th all-time) and 1,831 RBIs (18th all-time).

He last played in the Majors for the Rays in 2011, announcing his retirement in April of that year. He started 2012 in the A's organization with Triple-A Sacramento, but he requested his release on June 15. Ramirez served a 50-game suspension for violating MLB's drug policy during his time in the Minors, and he would be able to play immediately if a Major League team signed him.