Austin Slater opts out of Rays minor league contract, seeks new deal

Austin Slater has opted out of his minor league contract with the Tampa Bay Rays as he seeks a new Major League contract. The 33-year-old outfielder, playing in his 10th Major League season, has appeared in games for the Miami Marlins, New York Mets, and Rays this season. In Triple-A, Slater posted a batting line of.305/.407/.453 over 35 games. His performance in the Major Leagues has been less impressive, with a.231 batting average and no home runs in 74 plate appearances. MLB rosters will expand on September 1, providing Slater an opportunity to find a new contract in time for the regular season's final month.

• 5:20 PMYahoo Sports — Former Yankees, Mets outfielder opts out of Rays contract