Rays release Arencibia, Nava elects free agency

After trading away Kirby Yates to the Cleveland Indians for cash considerations, the Tampa Bay Rays announced Wednesday they have released catcher J.P. Arencibia and outrighted outfielder Daniel Nava.

Arencibia opened the year with the Baltimore Orioles, but was released, joining the Rays on a minor-league deal in April. He was then called up in August, going on to bat .310/.315/.606 the rest of the season.

Nava was designated for assignment Nov. 20 and refused the assignment Wednesday, electing free agency instead.

The 32-year-old was claimed off waivers by the Rays from the Boston Red Sox midway through 2015, though only managed a batting line of .233/.364/.301 in 31 games with Tampa Bay.

The Rays also announced they have outrighted pitcher Brandon Gomes who has declined his outright assignment as well.