Phillies say goodbye to Pedro Feliz
by Scott Butler 11/9/09
The Phillies announced Sunday night they have declined Pedro Feliz's $5.5 million club option for 2010. They will buy him out for $500,000 instead.
They say that this does not preclude the team from bringing him back. That definitely is not their plan, but given the small number of third baseman available that would be an upgrade, it still is a possibility.
The most common names thrown out as free agent options for the Phillies are Mark DeRosa, Chone Figgins, and Adrian Beltre. Figgins would be the best option for the Phils. His batting average and speed would be a perfect addition to this lineup. DeRosa is a good player with power, but the Phillies have plenty of power and could use some more stability to the lineup. Imagine having Rollins and Victorino at the top of the lineup and Figgins batting in the 7 spot below Werth and Ibanez. Nice.
Another interesting option is Polanco. The former Philly is a second baseman by trade, but could play third, as well. I wouldn't be opposed to Polanco, but I would prefer to have a true third baseman. Don't forget, Feliz made a lot of big plays defensively for this team.
Feliz hit .266 with 12 home runs and 82 RBIs in 158 games this season. He hit a team-best .336 with runners in scoring position, which ranked 13th in the National League. But his value was in his glove. He played excellent defense for the Phillies for two seasons.
Here is the breakdown of the numbers on the possibilities at third.
Chone Figgins - .298 average, 5 HR, 54 RBI, 42 SB
Adrian Beltre - .265 average, 8 HR, 44 RBI
Mark DeRosa - .250 average, 23 HR, 78 RBI
Joe Crede - .225 average, 15 HR, 48 RBI
Placido Polanco - .285 average, 10 HR, 72 RBI
Click here for a list of all free agents on mlb.com.
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