Schafer was granted his unconditional release from the Nationals on Saturday, Mark Zuckerman of MASN reports.

EDGE Analysis

The 29-year-old outfielder was signed to a minor league deal with an invite to spring training this offseason, but after being reassigned to minor league camp earlier in the week, Schafer has elected free agency. He could latch on with a team looking to add outfield depth, but at this point his chances of earning a spot on an Opening Day roster appear to be slim. Schafer batted .200 with six strikeouts over 20 at-bats with the Nationals this spring.