Phillies, A.J. Burnett decline mutual option

Phillies’ starting pitcher A.J. Burnett and the organization came to a mutual agreement to opt out of his contract for the 2015 season. Burnett signed with the Phillies in early 2014 as insurance for an injured Cole Hamels (shoulder tendinitis) and to bolster the depth of an aging rotation.

Burnett, at age 37, came from the Pirates after throwing 191 innings in 2013 with a 3.12 K/BB ratio. Burnett’s 2014 season saw a decline in most of his statistical areas. 2014 was the first time since 2005 that Burnett did not register a double-digit win campaign. His ERA increased by over a run, his WHIP increased by about .2 and he almost matched a career high in walks with 96. Despite slowing down in his 16th season, which was expected by just about everyone except the Phillies’ decision makers, Burnett was able to throw 213 2/3 innings for the  team’s beleaguered pitching staff.

Burnett was enticed out of possible retirement with a one-year deal worth $15 million and a mutual option. The mutual option was worth $15 million if the team accepted it. If not, Burnett could opt to use his option capability that would lower his salary to $7.5 million for the 2015 season. Each side decided that they weren’t fitting each other’s plans.

The Phillies are not contenders for 2015 and the foreseeable future. They have finally come out and said it this offseason mostly due to the fact that former General Manager Pat Gillick has taken a critical role within the baseball operations department. Gillick is known for being honest with the media throughout his tenure as the Phillies General Manager while current General Manager Ruben Amaro Jr. refused to acknowledge the lack of talent on an aging, injury-plagued Phillies team for the last couple of seasons.

Burnett is entering his 17th season and wasn’t even expected to pitch in 2014 except for the fact that the Phillies convinced him to play for one more season. With this in mind, Burnett is looking for a strong championship contender (possibly the San Francisco Giants) where he can add his leadership and strong middle of the rotation repertoire.