Dodgers Buy Out Option on Jordan for $2.5 Million

The Dodgers severed ties with Brian Jordan on Wednesday, declining to exercise the left fielder’s $10.5-million option for 2004 and buying it out for $2.5 million.

The move had been expected because the 11-year veteran is still recovering from season-ending knee surgery July 11, and the Dodgers did not want to commit that much money to Jordan, who was paid $9.6 million in 2003.

“We just didn’t think it made any sense given his surgery, and given where we are as a club,” General Manager Dan Evans said. “We’re not really entirely sure who our answer is going to be, but we’re sure it won’t be Brian at $10.5 million.”

Jordan, who has filed for free agency, said he is recovering well and eager for a fresh start.

“I’m just sorry that the fans never had an opportunity to see me at 100%,” said Jordan, who batted .299 with six home runs and 28 runs batted in during 66 games last season. “But my knee is feeling great right now, and I know that I’m going to have a great year next year.”

Evans said he has been in contact with the agents of Dodger players who have filed for free agency, and the club is awaiting a decision from setup man Paul Quantrill.

Quantrill, who led the major leagues with 89 appearances last season, has until Tuesday to void the remaining season on his contract and become a free agent. The right-hander is guaranteed $3.1 million next season.

-- Jason Reid

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Dodger reliever Eric Gagne was the third-best player in baseball over the last two seasons, according to the annual statistical rankings by the Elias Sports Bureau.

Toronto pitcher Roy Halladay received a 98.476 rating on a scale of 100. Boston outfielder Manny Ramirez was second at 98.293, down from last year, when he became only the fifth player with a perfect score. Gagne was third at 97.347.

The rankings, based on statistics over two years, are used to decide whether players are Type A, B or C free agents, and what draft picks their former teams get as compensation if they sign elsewhere.

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Going, Going

Dodgers filing for free agency:

*--* Player Position Jeromy Burnitz outfield Rickey Henderson outfield Brian Jordan outfield Tom Martin pitcher Fred McGriff first base Robin Ventura third base

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