Braves add OF Benson to list of non-roster invitees

ATLANTA (AP) The Atlanta Braves have optioned right-handed pitcher Brandon Cunniff to Triple-A Gwinnett and added outfielder Joe Benson to the list of non-roster invitees with two days remaining in spring training.

The 27-year-old Benson signed with the Braves as a minor-league free agent in January. He is hitting .250 with one homer - off Philadelphia's Cole Hamels on Wednesday - and two RBIs in nine spring training games in his surprising bid for a bench spot. He opened spring training with the Braves' minor leaguers.

Benson hit .239 in 21 games for the Minnesota Twins in 2011.