Astros decline option on RHP Brocail

Oct 1, 2008 - 5:06 PM HOUSTON (Ticker) -- The Houston Astros on Wednesday declined the 2009 contract option on reliever Doug Brocail.

Brocail, whose option was valued at $3.25 million, went 7-5 with two saves and a 3.93 ERA in a career-high 72 appearances this past season. The 41-year-old worked 68 2/3 innings, limiting opposing hitters to a .242 average.

Despite declining the option, general manager Ed Wade indicated that the club still has interest in bringing Brocail back next season.

"Doug did a terrific job for us this year," Wade said. "He was a workhorse out of the bullpen and brought a solid veteran presence to our clubhouse. Although we've declined to exercise the 2009 option, it's our hope that we can get Doug back here for next season. I have already spoken with him, and he expressed definite interest in being with us."

In 14 seasons, Brocail owns a 51-48 record with nine saves and a 3.99 ERA.