Baltimore Orioles release 3B Wilson Betemit

In the midst of an increasingly unlikely push toward the 2013 MLB playoffs, the Baltimore Orioles have made a significant roster change.

While that Tweet from Brittany Ghiroli from MLB.com is short and to the point, there isn’t much mystery to the release of Betemit from the Orioles roster. The 31-year-old utility infielder (primarily a third baseman) spent much of the season in the minor leagues, and in 2012, struggled to a season that saw him post less than 1 win over replacement of value.

Betemit was designated for assignment over a week ago, and the writing was on the wall for him in recent days. At 31, he could be past his prime or, more simply, could be unable to field his position (where he has a career negative dWAR) capably. Either way, it’s lights-out on this particular season for the switch-hitting infielder, and his focus will be shifting toward making a club for next season.

As far as the Orioles are concerned, the timing is a bit curious in the aftermath of Manny Machado’s gruesome injury yesterday. Obviously, the club believes that Betemit isn’t the best option to finish the year, and the team is using Ryan Flaherty at the hot corner on Tuesday. That tells you everything you need to know.