Houston, TX (My Sportsbook) - The Houston Astros have declined their 2009 option, valued at $3.25 million, on workhorse reliever Doug Brocail on Wednesday. Brocail, 41, was 7-5 with a 3.93 earned run average and two saves in a career- high 72 appearances for the Astros in 2008. He struck out 64 and walked 21 in 68 2/3 innings, limiting opposing hitters to a .242 average, including holding right-handed hitters to a .200 clip. Brocail pitched in 47 games before the All-Star Break in 2008, one away from tying the franchise record of 48 first-half appearances set by Juan Agosto in 1990. "Doug did a terrific job for us this year," said Astros general manager Ed Wade. "He was a workhorse out of the bullpen and brought a solid veteran presence to our clubhouse. Although we've declined to exercise the 2009 option, its our hope that we can get Doug back here for next season. I have already spoken with him, and he expressed definite interest in being with us." Over parts of 14 major league seasons with San Diego (1992-94, 2006-07), Houston (1995-96, 2008), Detroit (1997-2000), and Texas (2004-05), Brocail is 51-48 with nine saves and a 3.99 ERA in 606 career appearances (42 starts). |
