Chris Johnson Designated for Assignment: Latest Details, Comments and Reaction

The Cleveland Indians announced Thursday that third baseman Chris Johnson was designated for assignment in order to make room on the 40-man roster for Rajai Davis.

Max Wildstein of Scout noted Johnson is owed $16.5 million over the final two guaranteed years on his contract. He also has a $10 million option for the 2018 season that carries a $1 million buyout clause, according to Spotrac.

Johnson arrived to Cleveland in August when the Indians and Atlanta Braves made what amounted to a swap of bad contracts. Nick Swisher and Michael Bourn were shipped to the National League club.

The 31-year-old infielder didn't make much of an impact after the deal. He hit .289 with just one home run in 27 games down the stretch.

Meanwhile, the Indians have an abundance of infielders who will be seeking playing time next season. Giovanny Urshela and Jose Ramirez could end up splitting time at third alongside Carlos Santana, Jason Kipnis and Francisco Lindor.

Johnson enjoyed his best season in 2013 with the Braves. He nearly won the NL batting crown with a .321 average to go along with 12 homers and 68 runs batted in. But that success was fueled by a .394 batting average on balls in play, per FanGraphs.

So his regression toward a merely replacement-level player in the seasons that have followed didn't come as much surprise.

The Indians could look to deal him while he's on the designated for assignment list. His contract makes it unlikely they'll find a trade partner unless they are willing to eat a significant portion of the money left on his current deal, though.

Ultimately, Cleveland has 10 days to decide what it wants to do, and there isn't an ideal option given his contract, lackluster numbers and the limited playing time likely available for him next season.