The Big Hurt Told to Beat-it!

The Toronto Blue Jays released slumping designated hitter Frank Thomas Sunday, cutting the 19-year veteran loose one day after he was angry for being taken out of the lineup.

By John

Somehow Thomas did not think being hitless in his past 13 at-bats, going 4-for-35. Despite being known as a slow starter and batting .167 with three homers and 11 RBIs for Toronto this season, Thomas got sent on his way.

General manager J.P. Ricciardi said he and Thomas came to “a mutual agreement” after meeting in the clubhouse early Sunday. “Our best opportunity is to put other guys in the lineup at this point,” Ricciardi 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.”

The move leaves the Blue Jays on the hook for the remainder of the two-year $18-million contract the 39-year-old Thomas signed in November 2006. “It’s pretty obvious,” Thomas said. “Sixty at bats isn’t enough to make that decision. I’m angry, I know I can help this team. My career isn’t going to end like this.” I kind of agree with that – but dude – getting $9M to bat a .167 is pretty retarded.

Frank, you are a legend, but be real – you are done. Do some charity work and wait for your name to hit the ballot. You have about a 60% chance of getting in, so if you are a gracious guy about all this and…I don’t know…consider a pay cut…you may actually be able to play a little longer as a DH on a growing team.