Mets release Oliver Perez

NEW YORK, March 21 (UPI) -- The New York Mets announced they were releasing left-handed pitcher Oliver Perez, citing ineffective performance by the highly paid hurler.

The move had been expected since before spring training, when the Mets decided they would release Perez and second baseman Luis Castillo unless they turned around their lackluster performances, The New York Times reported Monday.

Castillo was released Friday and was immediately signed by the Philadelphia Phillies.

Perez pitched poorly in spring training, with an 8.38 earned run average in seven appearances.

Even though his release was expected, Perez said, it was difficult to hear the announcement.

"Sometimes you might know before, but when they tell you it doesn't feel great," he said. "I think when you get fired from anywhere, you feel sad. It's not a good moment. But you have to be stronger, you know, and my life is not done, so I have to move on."

Perez, acquired by the Mets in 2006, signed a three-year, $36 million extension after the 2008 season.

He will be paid the remaining $12 million guaranteed by his contract, the Mets said.