Hanley expected to clear release waivers, become FA on Friday

Hanley Ramirez will be eligible to sign with another team as soon as Friday.

The Boston Red Sox requested release waivers on the slugger Wednesday after designating him for assignment last week. Interested teams will have 48 hours to place a claim on Ramirez, but because they would absorb his remaining salary, it's expected he will clear waivers and become a free agent. Ramirez has more than $15 million remaining on his deal this season, plus a $22-million vesting option for 2019. Should he clear waivers, the Red Sox will be on the hook for the rest of his salary this season.

Red Sox president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski said Tuesday it was unlikely the club would find a trade partner for Ramirez and a deal would have to come "completely out of left field."

Once Ramirez becomes a free agent, he'll be free to sign with the team of his choosing and will likely land the minimum salary.

In 44 games this season, the three-time All-Star has hit .254/.313/.395 with six home runs, seven doubles, and 29 RBIs. He's hit at least 20 home runs and 20 doubles in each of the last two seasons.