MESA, Ariz. -- Veteran outfielder Alejandro De Aza, who was enjoying a productive spring with the A's, has opted out of his Minor League contract in favor of free agency.
De Aza, 32, was being considered by the A's for the fifth outfielder spot, but there's a strong possibility they will keep just four to open the season and will choose to carry eight relievers. Should they opt for a fifth outfielder, however, Jaff Decker will likely fill that role.
De Aza, whom the A's officially released on Monday, totaled 40 at-bats this spring, hitting .