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.

The Guardians signed Santana to a one-year, $12 million deal on Dec. 23, a move made to help boost Cleveland’s lineup after it traded Josh Naylor to Arizona on Dec. 21, in a deal that brought Slade Cecconi to Cleveland.

In recent weeks, Santana’s playing time reduced while Cleveland pivoted toward youngsters

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