Blue Jays release Michael Bourn from minor league contract

The Toronto Blue Jays released outfielder Michael Bourn from his minor league contract over the weekend.

The Blue Jays signed the 33-year-old veteran on April 22 and assigned him to extended spring training to see what he had left. He then joined the Dunedin Blue Jays, where he hit .257 with a .737 OPS and had one stolen base in nine games.

Bourn, a left-handed hitter, played all three outfield positions in 2015, but struggled at the plate, batting .238 with a .592 OPS for the Indians and Braves. The Braves released him on April 9, making him a free agent.

Earlier in his career, Bourn established himself as an elite defender in centre field, a 50-steal threat on the bases and a capable hitter at the plate. He signed a $48-million contract with the Cleveland Indians following a 2012 season in which he made his second all-star team and batted .274 with 42 stolen bases.

The Florida State League has announced the move.

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