Outfielder Aaron Hicks released by Angels after poor start

Aaron Hicks was released by the Los Angeles Angels on Wednesday after batting .140 in 18 games.

Hicks was 8 for 57 with the Angels and had only one hit in his last 19 at-bats.

"We just thought we needed to start making some changes," manager Ron Washington said before Monday night's game against the Philadelphia Phillies. "I love Aaron Hicks and I appreciate what he did during the time he was here, but it was time to move on."

Hicks signed a one-year deal with the Angels in late January. He started only two of the last six games after Jo Adell took over as the starting right fielder.

The 34-year-old Hicks spent last season with the New York Yankees and Baltimore Orioles. He joined the Orioles last May after he was released by the Yankees, where he spent parts of eight seasons.

Hicks appeared to revive his career with Baltimore, batting .275 in 65 games for the AL East champions.

The Angels have lost five straight and are 3-9 at home.

"We're not trying to give a message to anyone that if you don't do this and if you don't do that, you won't be here. But if they don't do this and they don't do that, then they won't," said Washington, who is in his first season leading the Angels and celebrated his 72nd birthday on Monday.