Philadelphia releases LHP Dontrelle Willis

Philadelphia releases LHP Dontrelle Willis

Published Mar. 16, 2012 12:18 p.m. ET

BRADENTON, Fla. (AP) -- The Philadelphia Phillies have released left-handed pitcher Dontrelle Willis.

The team announced the move Friday on Twitter.

The 30-year-old Willis signed a deal with the Phillies this offseason and was competing for a bullpen spot this spring.

A two-time All Star with the Florida Marlins, Willis has pitched for four teams in nine seasons, all of them as a starter. The Phillies signed him to a nonguaranteed contract in December, and according to the Philadelphia Inquirer, he will receive $139,000 in severance pay.

In three appearances this spring, Willis has allowed five earned runs on five hits and four walks in 2 2/3 innings. He made his last appearance Thursday against the Atlanta Braves.

The Phillies also reassigned catcher Steven Lerud to minor league camp on Friday.

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