Adam Rubin of ESPN says former New York Mets outfielder Gary Matthews Jr. has cleared waivers and is officially released.

Matthews was designated for assignment earlier this month. The outfielder  was hitting .190 in 58 at-bats this season.

The Mets acquired Matthews this past winter from the Los Angeles Angels in exchange for right-handed pitcher Brian Stokes. The Angels also provided $21.5 million in cash to offset the contract of Matthews.

Matthews was acquired to provide insurance for the Mets until Carlos Beltran returned from knee surgery. Unfortunately for Matthews, he poor performance led to his ultimate release.