Cleveland released Sandoval shortly after acquiring him from Atlanta on Friday, Zack Meisel of The Athletic reports.

EDGE Analysis

The decision to immediately cut Sandoval after acquiring him confirms that Cleveland's main motivation in trading away outfielder Eddie Rosario was to get off the hook for the money remaining on his $8 million deal. Prior to the trade, Sandoval had served mainly as a pinch hitter off the bench for Atlanta, slashing .178/.302/.342 in 86 plate appearances. The soon-to-be 35-year-old Sandoval offers little defensive value and has contributed a 67 wRC+ since the start of the 2020 season, so he could have trouble earning another opportunity in the big leagues.