Yankees release Ben Francisco

The New York Yankees released outfielder Ben Francisco after designating him for assignment last week, according to Wallace Matthews of ESPNNewYork.com. Francisco, 31, has hit .114 with 1 HR and 1 RBI in 21 games (50 plate appearances) on the season.

After signing with the Indians in January, Francisco was released during spring training and quickly latched on with the Yankees on a minor league deal. After many key Yankees suffered injuries during spring training, Francisco beat out competitors Matt Diaz and Juan Rivera for a spot on the team's Opening Day roster, but struggled mightily at the plate for the first two months of the season. After constant cries from the fanbase to part ways with Francisco, the Yankees finally designated him for assignment on May 26th to clear roster space for left-hander David Huff.

In seven major league seasons with the Indians (2007-2009), Phillies (2009-2011), Blue Jays (2012), Astros (2012), Rays (2012) and Yankees (2013), Francisco is a lifetime .253 hitter with 50 HR and 190 RBI. Francisco has been involved in July blockbusters twice in his career; in 2009 when he was traded along with Cliff Lee for four prospects, and in 2012 when he was shipped from the Blue Jays to the Astros in an 11-player megadeal.

Although Francisco's numbers are very poor, he will likely sign a minor league deal soon with a team looking for outfield help. Before signing with Cleveland in January, he drew interest from five different teams, including the New York Mets, who are always looking to add players to their outfield mix.