Mariners release Vidro

The Mariners on Tuesday designated Jose Vidro for assignment, parting ways with their underperforming designated hitter.

The Mariners have 10 days to trade, release, option or assign Vidro outright to the minors.

"We appreciate all of Jose's hard work and professionalism," Mariners interim general manager Lee Pelekoudas said. "We wanted to have every opportunity to try and trade him. Even though that opportunity may still exist, now that we've passed the July 31 deadline it was important for us to continue our transition into a club that is looking towards the 2009 season, even as we try to win as many games as possible this season."

Vidro, 33, batted .234 in 85 games this season. He made $8.5 million this season, of which his last team, the Washington nationals, paid $2.5 million. He has a vesting option for 2009 that activates at 600 plate appearances, which he will not reach, triggering a $500,000 buyout.

The Mariners recalled Wladimir Balentien from Triple-A Tacoma to take Vidro's spot on the roster.