Following the 2010 season, Hunter was added to the Padres' 40-man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 draft. On March 28, 2011, it was announced that he had made San Diego's Opening Day roster.[3] During Opening Day on March 31, Hunter scored his first run as a Padre when playing against the St. Louis Cardinals, scoring from second base off a Nick Hundley single in the top of the 11th inning.
St. Louis Cardinals
On October 25, 2011, Hunter was claimed off waivers by the Oakland Athletics. On April 4, 2012, Oakland traded Hunter to the St. Louis Cardinals in exchange for future considerations. He was subsequently assigned to their Triple–A affiliate, the Memphis Redbirds.[4]
Cleveland Indians
On November 20, 2012, Hunter signed a minor league deal with the Cleveland Indians that included an invitation to spring training.[5]
Atlanta Braves
Hunter signed a minor league deal with the Atlanta Braves in February 2014. He elected free agency on November 7, 2015.[6]
Philadelphia Phillies
Hunter signed a minor league deal and was invited to spring training with the Philadelphia Phillies on January 4, 2016. Following injuries to multiple outfielders and an impressive spring training, Hunter made the Opening Day roster, projected to earn regular playing time in the outfield.[7]
On April 25, 2016, Hunter was outrighted off the 40-man roster.[8] After the 2016 season concluded, Hunter was a free agent. However, on November 23, Hunter was suspended for 50 games after testing positive for amphetamine.[9]
Cincinnati Reds
On April 5, 2017, Hunter signed a minor league contract with the Cincinnati Reds. In 14 games for the Triple–A Louisville Bats, he batted .300/.310/.475 with one home run and four RBI. Hunter was released by the Reds organization on June 26.
On March 11, 2018, Hunter signed with the Bravos de León of the Mexican League.[10] In the first half of the season, he hit .308/.339/.520 with 12 home runs, 51 RBI, and seven stolen bases. In the second half of the season, Hunter slashed .332/.404/.519 with seven home runs, 38 RBI, and six stolen bases.[11]
Hunter made 109 appearances for León in 2019, batting .328/.402/.572 with 19 home runs and 81 RBI. He was released by León on December 24, 2019.[12]