Astros decline $3.25M option for reliever Brocail

HOUSTON (AP) -The Houston Astros declined a $3.25 million club option on Doug Brocail, though general manager Ed Wade said the team would try to re-sign the 41-year-old reliever for next season.

Brocail, who receives a $250,000 buyout, went 7-5 with a 3.93 ERA and two saves in a career-high 72 appearances for the Astros in 2008. He appeared in 47 games before the All-Star Break, one short of Juan Agosto's franchise record for first-half outings.

"Doug did a terrific job for us this year," Wade said. "He was a workhorse out of the bullpen and brought a solid veteran presence to our clubhouse. Although we've declined to exercise the 2009 option, it's our hope that we can get Doug back here for next season. I have already spoken with him, and he expressed definite interest in being with us."

The 14-year veteran had a $2.5 million base salary this year and earned $250,000 in performance bonuses based on games. He is eligible to file for free agency.