There are a metric butt-ton of third basemen on the market this winter, so the Phillies decided that it was not worth paying their current one $5.5 million:
They could still bring back Feliz at a lower price. Or the could go after Chone Figgins, Adrian Beltre, Garrett Atkins, or Mark DeRosa, all of whom except DeRosa are younger and each of whom bring one thing or another to the table that Feliz does not. Beltre could be the best option in that his defense is just as good as Feliz’s and his offensive upside is superior.
The Phillies have declined the option for 2010 on third baseman Pedro Feliz’ contract, general manager Ruben Amaro, Jr. announced in a press release. The Phillies had a $5.5 million option, a $5 million salary for 2010 and a $500,000 buyout.
Feliz, 34, batted .266 with 12 home runs and 82 RBI in 158 games for the Phillies this past season. With runners in scoring position, he hit a team-best .336, which ranked 13th among all National League players.