San Diego Padres release rookie catcher Blake Hunt after brief stint

The San Diego Padres released rookie catcher Blake Hunt on Wednesday. Hunt, a second-round draft pick from 2017, appeared in three Major League games for the club and recorded no hits with three strikeouts in his limited plate appearances. He had been designated for assignment earlier in the week prior to his release. Despite his struggles at the Major League level, Hunt maintained a strong offensive performance at Triple-A El Paso, where he hit.301 with 11 home runs over 42 games. The Padres currently hold other catching options on the active roster including Freddy Fermin, Luis Campusano, and top prospect Ethan Salas. Hunt will become a free agent and is eligible to sign with any team, although his lack of postseason eligibility makes him a late-season addition for clubs not in contention.

• 8:19 PMYahoo Sports — Padres release rookie catcher with .000 batting average