Nats release Villone, option 5 pitchers to minors

Mar 15, 2010 - 8:12 PM VIERA, Fla.(AP) -- Left-handed reliever Ron Villone has been released by the Washington Nationals.

The Nationals signed Villone to a minor league contract last month and invited him to spring training. But Villone had a 16.20 ERA in three relief appearances covering 1 2-3 innings.

The Nationals also sent five pitchers to their minor league camp Monday, including righty Collin Balester.