Athletics decline option on Singleton

OAKLAND, Calif., Oct. 21 (UPI) -- The Oakland Athletics declined the contract option on outfielder Chris Singleton Tuesday, giving the leadoff man his unconditional release.

Now a free agent, Singleton hit .245 with one homer and 36 RBI this season. His .301 on-base percentage did not fit in with the Athletics' offensive philosophy, which centers around working deep counts and drawing walks.

In the American League Division Series against the Boston Red Sox, Singleton played in just two of five games, going 2-for-7.

Singleton has played five seasons, also spending time with the Chicago White Sox and Baltimore Orioles. He has a .273 career average with 81 stolen bases.