Scott Kazmir isn't the only former Ray star that has been given up on by a Southern California team -- the Padres have designated Jorge Cantu for assignment.

The team now has 10 days to trade, release or place Cantu on waivers. It opens a spot on the 40-man roster for the Padres.

The Padres signed Cantu to a one-year deal worth $850,000 in January. He was relegated to platooning at first base with Brad Hawpe, and with the emergence of Anthony Rizzo, that's not even an option. The Padres dropped Cantu even though they are headed to Minnesota this week and will be able to use the designated hitter.

In 57 games with the Padres, Cantu started 21 at first and nine at third, hitting .194/.232/.285 with three home runs and 16 RBI in 155 plate appearances.

Cantu started last season with the Marlins -- even beginning the season with a 21-game hitting streak -- before being traded to the Rangers at the deadline. He struggled with the Rangers before signing with the Padres this offseason.

In 2005, Cantu hit 28 home runs for the Rays before struggling in 2006. He was traded to the Reds in 2007. The Reds released him following the 2007 season and he signed with the Marlins, where he hit 29 homers in his first season there and then saw a dip in his power numbers. He improved his batting average and on-base percentage in 2009.