A's release right-hander Marco Estrada

OAKLAND -- Battling back issues that landed him on the injured list in April, Marco Estrada was released by the A’s on Tuesday. The right-hander had pitched in five Minor League games in an effort to return, but the pain in his back was limiting his effectiveness.

“After every start, he really struggled,” A's manager Bob Melvin said. “I knew it was going to be a stretch to get him stretched out to start again. He’s not a reliever, and he had issues from late April on. This is the position we had to be in because we need roster spots. We wish him the best. He’s a great guy. I really enjoyed my time with him.”

Estrada began the season as the A’s No. 2 starter, going 0-2 with a 6.85 ERA over five starts.