Dodgers designate struggling Alex Guerrero for assignment

CHICAGO -- The Los Angeles Dodgers have designated Alex Guerrero for assignment, essentially giving up on a player signed to a $28 million, four-year contract in October 2013.

Los Angeles has 10 days to trade Guerrero or place him on unconditional release waivers. His deal prohibits the Dodgers from assigning him to the minor leagues without his consent.

The 29-year-old Cuban shortstop has struggled to find a defensive position, and hit .233 with 11 homers in 106 games with the Dodgers last season. He hurt his left knee during spring training and batted .136 in 16 games of a 20-day minor league injury rehabilitation assignment that ended Sunday.

Guerrero's deal called for a $10 million signing bonus and salaries of $4 million in each of the first two season and $5 million in each of the last two.