Mariners Release Richie Sexson

The patrons of the Seattle bar that pegged the price of beer to Richie Sexson's batting average are crying in their suds today. r by the Mariners after a year and a half of unacceptable play as their first baseman.

One of ex-GM Bill Bavasi's signature blunders was signing Sexson to a four-year, $50 million contract before the 2005 season. Sexson had a good first season, an okay 2006 before falling off the cliff last year and never climbing back up. Sexson was hitting .218 with 11 homers, 76 strikeouts and an OPS of 696 this season.

"We felt that at this time it was in the best interest of the ballclub, and in Richie's best interest, to make this move" GM Lee Pelekoudas said in a statement released by the team.

I don't know if it's in Sexson's best interests. It's hard to see too many other teams lining up for a chance to pay him good money. Since it appears the likely beneficiary of playing time at first base is Miguel Cairo, however, it's not a clear plus to the team either. The Mariners aren't any better today because Sexson is off the team. They aren't any worse, though, and right now that's a step in the right direction for a team that needs a total overhaul.

No word on whether or not Seattle alcoholics will now be rooting for Kenji Johjima and Jose Vidro to continue stinking up Safeco Field.