Dodgers designate Alex Guerrero for assignment

The Dodgers have designated outfielder Alex Guerrero for assignment, as first reported by J.P. Hoornstra of the Los Angeles News Group. The team will now have 10 days to either trade, release or outright Guerrero.

Guerrero, 29, has spent the entire season in the minor leagues rehabbing a knee injury and was due to return to the majors Tuesday, forcing the Dodgers into a decision. Despite owing Guerrero $15 million over the next two years, Los Angeles is set at third base (Justin Turner) and left field (Carl Crawford and Andre Ethier) and did not have a spot for their Cuban signee.

Guerrero also had a clause in his contract that stated he could not be optioned to the minors without his consent, further forcing the team's hand. They simply had to either add him to the major-league roster or cut ties with him, electing to do the latter less than three years after signing him to a 4-year, $28 million contract.

Guerrero hit just .224/.251/.414 with 11 home runs in 117 games with Los Angeles, but showed flashes of impressive talent and has drawn trade interest over the last year. Though his contract may be steep for his performance to this point, another team would likely be willing to take a chance on him.