ATLANTA -- If Octavio Dotel returns to the Braves for the 2008 season, his salary will likely be less than he'd hoped. As expected, the Braves declined his $5.5 million option for next season and opened the door for him to file for free agency Tuesday.
The veteran right-handed reliever will have the opportunity to begin talking financial specifics with other clubs Tuesday.
Dotel heads into free agency coming off a season in which he spent a significant portion on the disabled list. In 33 combined games with the Royals and Braves, he converted 11 of 15 save opportunities, posted a 4.11 ERA and allowed opponents a .242 batting average.
After signing with the Royals last December, Dotel had his sights on becoming the effective closer he'd been before undergoing Tommy John elbow ligament transplant surgery in 2005. But a strained right oblique muscle suffered in Spring Training prevented him from making his season debut until May 23.
Dotel was acquired by the Braves in exchange for Kyle Davies on July 31. Just five appearances into his stint with Atlanta, he began experiencing right shoulder discomfort. The ailment sidelined him for more than six weeks.
After returning to action Sept. 22, Dotel proved healthy and regained his normal velocity with his fastball. In his final four regular-season appearances, he completed 3 1/3 scoreless innings, allowed just one hit and registered seven strikeouts.
Dotel, who notched a career-high 36 saves in 2004, could still return to the Braves. But he'd have to do so at a much cheaper salary and likely accept a setup role. Rafael Soriano is targeted to serve as Atlanta's closer next season.
Monday
April 28th, 2025
10:21PM
