Major League Baseball

Cedeno, Pirates agree, Capps cut loose

Published Dec. 17, 2009 5:31 a.m. ET

foxsports

Closer Matt Capps and reliever Phil Dumatrait became free agents Saturday night when Pittsburgh didn't offer them contracts for 2010. The Pirates reached agreement with utility infielder Ronny Cedeno on a one-year contract.

The right-handed Capps posted 27 saves last season while going 4-8 with a 5.80 ERA. The left-handed Dumatrait went 0-2 with a 6.92 ERA in 15 games.

``We attempted to reach agreement with both Matt and Phil prior to the deadline. Each player preferred to explore free agency. We have not closed any doors but will begin immediately to explore other opportunities to improve our bullpen,'' general manager Neal Huntington said.

Cedeno will get $1,125,000 next year, up from $822,500 last season. He can make an additional $75,000 in performance bonuses: $25,000 each for 475, 525 and 550 plate appearances.

Cedeno hit .258 with five homers and 21 RBIs for the Pirates, who acquired him July 29 along with Triple-A catcher-first baseman Jeff Clement and three minor league pitchers for shortstop Jack Wilson and pitcher Ian Snell.