Tigers release outfielder Xavier Avery, who opts out of contract

The Detroit Tigers have released outfielder Xavier Avery, who has decided to exercise an opt-out in his contract.

The 25-year-old center fielder was signed by the Tigers to a minor-league deal with an invite to spring training this past offseason.

Avery had a team-high .305 batting average with a .371 on-base percentage in 73 games with Triple-A Toledo. He served as the Mud Hens' leadoff hitter.

From MLive:

"Given the outfield depth in Triple-A Toledo, Avery -- who was not added to Detroit's 40-man roster -- likely didn't see an opportunity to crack Detroit's 25-man roster in the near future. Triple-A Toledo's outfield currently features Steven Moya, Tyler Collins and Daniel Fields -- all of whom are on Detroit's 40-man roster."

The Tigers have promoted outfielder Jeff McVaney from Double-A Erie to Triple-A Toledo to replace Avery's spot on the roster.

(h/t MLive)