D-Backs release veteran infielder Branyan

By Anthony Fenech / MLB.com | 05/21/11

PHOENIX -- The D-backs released veteran first baseman Russell Branyan on Saturday, a day after manager Kirk Gibson told the media the move would be made.

"We're going to make a move," Gibson said after Friday night's 8-7 victory over the Twins. "We're going to release Russell Branyan and add Micah Owings to the roster."

The 35-year-old Branyan played in 31 games for the D-backs this season, hitting .210 with one home run in 62 at-bats.

"It was a tough situation," Gibson said. "We had three first basemen, we kind of did the rotation thing, and I wanted to resolve that somewhat.

"Russ has worked hard, he was in more of a pinch-hit role," he added. "We'll give Russ his release, he'll get picked up by somebody, and he'll have a chance to have a different role on a different team."

Branyan has hit 190 career home runs in 14 seasons with a lifetime .234 batting average and .487 slugging percentage.

"He's been a class guy and I've enjoyed my time with him," Gibson said. "He's got a lot of baseball left in him, and I wish him the best."

In addition to releasing Branyan, the D-backs selected the contract of pitcher Micah Owings from Triple-A Reno and outrighted right-hander Armando Galarraga to Reno.