The Oakland Athletics said Monday they will not exercise their option on Japanese right-hander Keiichi Yabu, who now has to look for a new team after failing to turn in a convincing performance in his rookie year in the major leagues.
Yabu, who pitched for the Hanshin Tigers of Japan's Central League for 11 seasons, became a free agent after the 2004 season and signed a $1 million, one-year contract with Oakland in January this year.
The 37-year-old had a 4-0 record with one save and a 4.50 ERA in 40 games, all in relief appearances, with the Athletics.