CINCINNATI -- Outfielder Laynce Nix refused an outright assignment by the Reds after clearing waivers and became a free agent on Tuesday.

Nix batted .291 with four home runs and 18 RBIs in 97 games this season, primarily as a reserve. He made 31 starts, but led the club in pinch-hit at-bats with 45 and 12 hits as a pinch-hitter.

A sprained left ankle suffered on Aug. 23 put Nix on the disabled list and limited his ability to contribute down the stretch. Before the injury, he was enjoying a 21-for-47 (.447) clip at the plate.

Nix has made the Reds as a non-roster player in each of the last two springs. He refused an outright assignment after last season, but returned upon signing a Minor League contract.

The Reds currently have 33 players remaining on their 40-man roster.