Bret Boone hinted at retirement Monday after getting his unconditional release from the Twins. The team told Boone of its plans on Sunday's flight home from Boston. On Monday, the Twins made it official, releasing the former All-Star second baseman to make room for shortstop Jason Bartlett, who was in the starting lineup against Oakland after arriving from Class AAA Rochester. Boone, 36, had been designated for assignment by the Seattle Mariners and nearly released before July 11, when Seattle dealt him to the Twins for a minor league player to be named. In 14 games with the Twins, Boone hit .170 with nine hits -- all singles -- in 53 at-bats. Boone said it reminded him of struggles he had in 1997 and 2000, "where the swing isn't working anymore."