Weber, Jimenez among Reds who opt for free agency

CINCINNATI -- Relievers Ben Weber and Chris Booker and second baseman D'Angelo Jimenez left the Cincinnati Reds as free agents on Monday.

The Reds also announced that first base coach Randy Whisler won't return next season.

Weber came to the Reds as part of an offseason move to improve their bullpen, getting a $600,000 contract. A bulging disc in his neck limited him to 10 appearances and sent him to the disabled list in May. He never returned.

Jimenez started the season as the second baseman, but slumped and lost his job. He hit .229 in 35 games before he was sent to the minors, where he spent the rest of the season.

Booker also chose free agency rather than accept an outright assignment to Triple-A Louisville, where he was the closer last season. He was called up in September and appeared in three games.