Posted October 30, 200717 yr Benitez formally chooses free agency 10/29/2007 9:50 PM ET By Joe Frisaro / MLB.com MIAMI -- The second time around in a Marlins' uniform for Armando Benitez wasn't as productive as his first. Now, the veteran reliever's tenure with the Marlins could once again be coming to a close. On Monday, Benitez formally filed for free agency, a move that was expected. The veteran reliever, who turns 35 on Nov. 3, can exclusively negotiate with the Marlins until Nov. 12. If no deal is reached by then, he becomes free to speak to the rest of the league. Benitez appeared in 36 games for Florida in 2007, posting a 2-5 record with a 5.73 ERA with no saves. The Marlins acquired Benitez from the Giants on May 31 for reliever Randy Messenger. With San Francisco, he was 0-3 with a 4.67 ERA with nine saves in 11 chances. In 2004, Benitez set a Marlins' franchise record with 47 saves. After that season, he signed as a free agent with San Francisco. It was a rougher second stint for Benitez, who was used in a setup role to closer Kevin Gregg. Benitez was bothered by a back problem late in the season and his last appearance was on Sept. 1 against the Phillies. He struggled, walking both batters he faced that day, with both scoring. Benitez is one of three Marlins eligible to file for free agency. Infielder Aaron Boone and pitcher Byung-Hyun Kim also are expected to file soon. Benitez broke in with the Orioles in 1994, and he has 289 career saves in 754 games. So far this is a plus off-season.
October 30, 200717 yr Am I the only one who would not be surprised to see us bring him back? depends on what happens with the other vets I think
October 30, 200717 yr Ugh! Whatever happened to that guy from 2004??? I believe all he needs is a healthy offseason so he can get his back straight, then he'll be back. I mean, he won't be the same 47 save guy, but he can be a solid bullpen arm.
October 30, 200717 yr What's sad is that I never guessed I would be wanting Messenger back after he went to SF.
October 31, 200717 yr What's sad is that I never guessed I would be wanting Messenger back after he went to SF. I was sad since the day it was announce. A young 25 year old player with an ERA around 2.50 for a old 35 years old veteran with an ERA around 5.50. And the reaction to this forum from the trade, I was shock. :banghead
October 31, 200717 yr Ugh! Whatever happened to that guy from 2004??? I believe all he needs is a healthy offseason so he can get his back straight, then he'll be back. I mean, he won't be the same 47 save guy, but he can be a solid bullpen arm. doubtful, very doubtful......first he has to get his HEAD straight, and it seems to be difficult for him.......... but heck he ain't Julio! I say good riddance as well
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