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Tigers release Gary Sheffield

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Detroit Tigers Gary Sheffield runs the bases after hitting a 2-run homer in the third inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium in New York City on April 29, 2008. (UPI Photo/John Angelillo) 
Published: March. 31, 2009 at 10:19 AM

LAKELAND, Fla., March 31 (UPI) -- Outfielder Gary Sheffield, a nine-time All-Star who has 499 career home runs, was released Tuesday by the Detroit Tigers.

Sheffield, 41, told MLB.com that team officials, including Manager Jim Leyland, said they wanted a more versatile roster and could only see a designated-hitter role for Sheffield.

The Tigers will owe Sheffield $14 million for this season. The outfielder will be eligible to sign with any other team once he clears waivers.

Sheffield was the runner-up in American League Most Valuable Player voting in 2004 while he was a member of the New York Yankees. He's played 21 seasons in the major leagues. In addition to the Tigers and Yankees, Sheffield played for Milwaukee, San Diego, Florida, the Los Angeles Dodgers and Atlanta.

He is a career .292 hitter and has 1,633 runs batted in to go with his 499 home runs.

Topics: Gary Sheffield, Manager Jim Leyland
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