As expected, the Phillies have declined the $4.5 million team option on left-handed reliever J.C. Romero for 2011.
“Romeo” was signed to a three year, $12 million contract just before the 2008 season to be the situational lefty out of the pen. He did well in his role after signing as a free agent midway through the ’07 season, but was a shell of his former self this year.
In 2008, he was a key contributer for the World Series winning club. However, in 2009, he was nailed for performance-enhancing drug use and battled injuries the past two seasons. Romero will be given a $250,000 buyout.
Mark this one under obvious. Romero was not coming back at that price, both he and the Phillies were well aware of it well in advance. He’ll find work however, and if the Phillies do attempt to bring him back, a minor league deal would be proper.
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