When a player's contract is designated for assignment -- often abbreviated "DFA" -- that player is immediately removed from his club's 40-man roster. ... Players with more than three years of Major League service time or who have been previously outrighted may reject the outright assignment in favor of free agency.

How does designated for assignment work?

Designated for assignment is a contractual term used in Major League Baseball. When a player is designated for assignment, he is immediately removed from the club's 40-man roster. This gives the club 10 days to decide what to do with the player while freeing up a roster spot for another transaction, if needed.

How many times can a player be sent to the minors?

Only one Minor League option is used per season, regardless of how many times a player is optioned to and from the Minors over the course of a given season.