Orioles release Michael Bourn

The Baltimore Orioles have granted Michael Bourn his release after the veteran outfielder requested it Monday, the team announced.

Bourn, who had an opt-out clause in his contract, asked for his release with his chances of making the 40-man roster remote at best. The 34-year-old broke his finger in late February and never got a chance to play in a spring game with the Orioles.

After a horrendous start to the 2016 campaign, the Diamondbacks traded Bourn to the Orioles. With Baltimore, Bourn enjoyed some late-career resurgence, putting together a .283/.358/.435 slash line over 55 plate appearances.

Bourn, who now becomes a free agent, could still provide a team with a good backup outfield option. The two-time Gold Glove-winner has been an above-average fielder in corner outfield positions, and can still run the bases well despite his declining abilities elsewhere. Whether a position like that becomes available, though, may be incumbent on a mid-season injury.