Left-handed reliever Mike Gonzalez asked for his release, which the Nationals reportedly granted. The news comes via Max Wildstein of CalltothePen.com (Twitter link). Chris Cotillo of MLB Daily Dish (on Twitter) confirmed the move was an opt out by Gonzalez.
Gonzalez has yet to pitch at the major league level this season, but he did turn in a good 2.78 ERA with 7.15 K/9 and 3.97 BB/9 through 22 and 2/3 Triple-A innings. He made 75 appearances for the Brewers last season, pitching to a 4.68 ERA over 50 innings. He’s been much tougher against lefties throughout his career, which is why the Brewers used him in such a specialized role. Any number of contenders could be interested in the 36-year-old lefty specialist.