Oakland A's release Jim Johnson

The Oakland Athletics have released relief pitcher Jim Johnson, the team announced Friday. Johnson, 31, posted a 7.14 ERA with 28 strikeouts and 23 walks over

The Oakland Athletics have released relief pitcher Jim Johnson, the team announced Friday.

Johnson, 31, posted a 7.14 ERA with 28 strikeouts and 23 walks over 40 1/3 innings this season. He was designated for assignment earlier this month.

Oakland must pay Johnson, who is free to sign with any team, his $10 million salary.

Johnson was named to the American League All-Star team in 2012 and recorded 101 saves over 2012-13 with Baltimore. He was traded to Oakland in December.

The Athletics opened Friday at 66-41 and in first place in the American League West. The team acquired Red Sox ace Jon Lester in a trade before the non-waiver deadline Thursday.

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#Athletics release RHP Jim Johnson

— Oakland A's (@Athletics) August 1, 2014

- Chris Johnson