Athletics designated 1B Daric Barton for assignment. Barton got the boot off the A's 40-man roster Thursday to clear a spot for Kyle Blanks, who was acquired from the Padres for two minor leaguers. Barton owns a pedestrian .247 career batting average and .365 career slugging percentage, but he has a good OBP skillset and is a strong defender at first base. The 28-year-old should draw interest from other teams.