Former Atlanta Braves outfielder Alex Verdugo cleared waivers Saturday and was officially released by the club, The Athletic reported, three days after he was designated for assignment. Verdugo was removed from the active roster to open a spot for the return of outfielder Jurickson Profar,

With Jurickson Profar wrapping up his suspension for violating MLB's performance-enhancing drug policy, the Braves have decided to cut ties with Alex Verdugo.

Verdugo has hit .203 in his last 42 games. Profar will return from an 80-game suspension handed down four days into the season.