Glavine, Kent file for free agency

Nov 6, 2008 - 12:43 AM NEW YORK (Ticker) -- Future Hall of Famer Tom Glavine and Jeff Kent were among those who filed for free agency on Wednesday as they try to extend their lengthy careers by one more season.

The 42-year-old Glavine returned to the Atlanta Braves this past campaign but pitched in just 13 games before going down with a season-ending elbow injury. Despite struggling through a 2-4 season in which he tied a career worst with a 5.54 ERA, he has expressed his desire to play in 2009.

The veteran lefthander signed a one-year deal worth $8 million last offseason following five years with the New York Mets. In 22 seasons - 17 with the Braves - Glavine is 305-203 with a 3.54 ERA, winning a pair of Cy Young Awards along the way.

Kent, who spent the last four seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers, has hinted that he may retire despite playing reasonably well last season. The 40-year-old hit .280 with 12 home runs and 59 RBI in 2008.

In 17 seasons with six teams, he has 377 homers, 1,518 RBI and a National League Most Valuable Player award to his credit.

Other players to file for free agency on Wednesday were first baseman Jason Giambi and pitchers Mike Mussina, Mike Hampton, Carl Pavano, Trever Miller and Damaso Marte. The New York Yankees declined their options on Giambi and Pavano on Tuesday.