ATLANTA — The Atlanta Braves are clearing the way for Freddie Freeman to win the job at first base by declining to offer salary arbitration to Troy Glaus, Derrek Lee and Eric Hinske.

The Braves also said Tuesday they are not offering salary arbitration to outfielder Rick Ankiel and right-hander Kyle Farnsworth.

Freeman hit only .167 with one homer in 24 at-bats late this past season, but is regarded as the team's top hitting prospect.

Glaus hit .240 with 16 homers and 71 RBIs. Lee hit .287 with 3 homers and 24 RBIs after he was traded to Atlanta from the Chicago Cubs on Aug. 18.

Hinske played left field, first base and third base.

Major league clubs faced a deadline of midnight Tuesday to decide whether to offer eligible players arbitration.