Phillies Decline Pedro Feliz's Option

Considering that the Phillies made a few changes to their lineup in 2009 after winning a World Series, it shouldn't really come as a surprise that the 2010 version of the team will look a bit different as well. It was announced by the team on Sunday that they would not be picking up the option on third baseman Pedro Feliz, who will now become a free agent.

This does not mean that Feliz won't be back with the Phillies next season, it just means that he won't be back at the price of $5.5 million. General manager Ruben Amaro Jr. did say that he wouldn't rule out re-signing Feliz this winter in the team's official statement regarding the Feliz option.

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"This doesn't preclude us from bringing Pedro back next season," Amaro said in a statement. "While this allows us to explore other opportunities, we will continue to keep the lines of communication open with Pedro and his representative."

There is no shortage of those other opportunities this winter either, as Chone Figgins, Adrian Beltre, Mark DeRosa and other third baseman will all be available on the free agent market. While it's unknown whether or not the Phillies will get involved in the Figgins sweepstakes, it's likely they'll take a look at Beltre.

He's a very similar player to Feliz offensively, and also plays outstanding defense at the hot corner like Feliz. The difference is that Beltre is four years younger than the 34-year-old Feliz, who will turn 35 in April.