Major League Baseball

LA Angels decline $7 million option on OF David Murphy

Published Nov. 4, 2015 5:11 p.m. ET

foxsports

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) The Los Angeles Angels have declined their $7 million contract option for next season on outfielder David Murphy, making him a free agent.

Angels spokesman Tim Mead confirmed the decision Wednesday. Murphy gets a $500,000 buyout.

Los Angeles acquired Murphy from Cleveland in late July for the playoff stretch. The 10-year veteran was a dependable contributor while batting .265 with five homers, starting as a designated hitter and then platooning in left field.

The Angels acquired Murphy, Shane Victorino and David DeJesus near the deadline in an attempt to boost their offense from left field, where the club never found a solid replacement for Josh Hamilton.

The Angels are expected to pursue higher-profile free-agent outfielders this winter. They also plan to stay in communication with Murphy.