Juan Francisco's locker is empty, likely designated for assignment

During today's spring training game, we got some news that will help clarify the situation at first base.  Per Todd Rosiak, Juan Francisco's locker at Maryvale has been cleared out.  While the Brewers have not made an announcement yet and will not make one until tomorrow, it appears as though Juan Francisco will be designated for assignment.

Francisco entered spring training as one of three candidates competing for a spot in a platoon at first base, and had put together a good spring.  In 13 games, he had a batting line of .346/.500/.731, with 3 home runs, 6 RBI, 8 walks, and 9 strikeouts.  However, Mark Reynolds was assured a spot at first in the offseason, and, according to Tom Haudricourt, the Brewers favored Lyle Overbay's defense over Francisco's offense. Both Reynolds and Overbay are expected to be added to the 40-man roster as early as tomorrow.

Haudricourt also had a comment from Ron Roenicke about the deadline coming up: "Tomorrow we've got to make the decision and tell the guys. The veteran guys usually have something in their contract. There's a date that they have to know by. Reynolds is in the same spot."

This was not the only roster news from the Brewers today.  They also optioned reliever Alfredo Figaro and outfielder Caleb Gindl to Nashville, and returned infielder Irving Falu and catcher Robinson Diaz to the minor-league camp.  Lucas May was also informed that he will not make the team out of spring training, but will remain with the major league team through the exhibition games in Milwaukee next weekend.

UPDATE: Official word from the Brewers is that Francisco was placed on release waivers for his unconditional release.