Frank Thomas's career as a Toronto Blue Jay is over.
The 39-year-old slugger was released by the American League club on Sunday, 24 hours after reacting angrily to being benched by manager John Gibbons and replaced by Canadian Matt Stairs as designated hitter.
Frank Thomas had just four hits in 34 at-bats since homering in three straight games April 5-8.
(Ryan Remiorz/Canadian Press)
Toronto general manager J.P. Ricciardi said the decision was "mutual" and it came after he and Thomas met on Sunday morning.
"Our best opportunity is to put other guys in the lineup at this point," the GM said. "Obviously, reduced playing time is not something that he was interested in.
"In order to let him go forward and get on with his career, I think it's fair to do it at this point."
Thomas was off to an anemic start that had seen the future Hall of Famer go hitless in his last 13 at-bats and only 4-for-34 since homering in three straight games April 5-8.
"I'm angry," Thomas said on Saturday, claiming the decision was made so Toronto could avoid having to automatically guarantee next year's $10-million US contract if he got 376 plate appearances this season.
Thomas's vesting option for 2009 was part of the $18.12-million, two-year deal signed in November of 2006.
He has 516 career homers and a lifetime batting average of .302. Last season, Thomas hit .277 with 26 homers and 95 RBIs for Toronto.
"I know I can help this team. My career is not going to end this way," he said Saturday.
Thomas, a career .302 hitter, is one of four players in baseball history to record at least a .300 average, 500 home runs, 1,500 RBIs, 1,000 runs and 1,500 walks. The others are Mel Ott, Babe Ruth and Ted Williams.
Gibbons was understanding of the anger, but unmoved.
"I feel for the guy," the manager said. "But right now, we need more production."
Taking Thomas's place is Stairs, who is hitting .333 after going 2-for-3 with a walk in a hustling performance on Saturday.
