Red Sox release 34-year-old Hanley Ramirez

Boston Red Sox designated hitter Hanley Ramirez takes off his batting helmet after grounding out with bases loaded during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Houston Astros, at Fenway Park in Boston. The Red Sox have designated Hanley Ramirez for assignment to make room for Dustin Pedroia on the 25-man roster as he returns from the disabled list. (Charles Krupa/AP)

HOUSTON — The Boston Red Sox have released Hanley Ramirez, a week after designating him for assignment.

The AL East leaders made the move before playing at Houston on Friday night. The Red Sox are responsible for the $14.4 million remaining on his contract, but the move avoids Ramirez triggering a $22 million salary for 2019.

Ramirez was designated for assignment on May 25, when there was still $15.25 million left, to make room on the roster for second baseman Dustin Pedroia, who was activated from the disabled list after recovering from knee surgery.

Ramirez hit .254 with six homers and 29 RBIs in 44 games this season as a designated hitter and first baseman. He struggled in May, batting just .163 with three homers and 12 RBIs.

The 34-year-old signed a four-year, $88 million contract before the 2015 season.

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