Arlington, TX (My Sportsbook) - The Texas Rangers placed lefthanded pitcher John Rocker on irrevocable waivers Thursday for the purpose of giving the one- time all-star closer his unconditional release.

Rocker was 2-3 with a 6.66 ERA and one save in 30 appearances with the Rangers during the 2002 campaign. Rocker was placed on the 15-day disabled list on July 11, retroactive to July 4, with left shoulder and neck pain. He experienced recurring pain following his rehab assignment at Tulsa and did not pitch again the rest of the year.

In 278 major league outings, Rocker is 13-22 with 88 saves while with Atlanta, Cleveland and Texas.

Also on Thursday, the Rangers declined an $800,000 option for the 2003 season on catcher Bill Haselman, who batted .246 with three homers and 18 RBI in a backup role this past season.