The Oakland Athletics have released infielder Nick Punto. The A's made the announcement Friday, saying Punto was released to clear room on the 40-man roster. A day earlier, Oakland acquired right-handers Jesse Hahn and R.J. Alvarez along with an international signing bonus slot from San Diego for catcher Derek Norris. Punto, a 14-year veteran, was due to make $2.75 million after his contract option for the 2015 season vested. Read more http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/12055684/nick-punto-released-oakland-athletics