The A’s released veteran reliever Brian Fuentes, who they designated for assignment July 3.

Fuentes expected to be released if the team was unable to work out a trade for him, and dealing him was a tough proposition given he’s struggled on the mound and is still owed roughly $2.5 million this season.

The A’s are now on the hook for most of that salary. Any team that signs the free agent is only responsible for the pro-rated portion of the major league minimum.

The St. Louis Cardinals were one team reported to have interest in Fuentes, one of just six lefties in major league history to collect 200 saves.