The Phillies designated Tony Gywnn, Jr. for assignment last week when they needed a roster spot for the return of Cliff Lee. However, when designating a player for assignment there is a 10-day window in which teams can decide a player's fate. The Phillies could have tried to send Gwynn to AAA Lehigh Valley if he cleared waivers, but today the Phillies granted Gwynn his release (via MLB Trade Rumors.
The move makes Gwynn a free agent and he can shop around for a new deal. Or, if he wishes, Gwynn is under no obligation to sign with another team this season if he would like to take some time off. Gwynn had called this season the most difficult of his career.
In 98 at bats for the Phillies, Gwynn batted .163.
