Phillies release lefty pitcher Willis

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The Phillies released left-handed pitcher Dontrelle Willis on Friday morning.

Willis, 30, was attempting to make the switch from starting pitcher to reliever to make the Phillies roster but that attempt fell short and ended on Friday.

The Phillies hoped Willis would be able to be a lefty specialist out of the bullpen. Last season, Willis limited lefties to a .127 average but during spring training, Willis gave up five runs in just 2.2 innings.

He also experienced some arm soreness but told trainers he felt OK, which seemed to bother pitching coach Rich Dubee.

He had some discomfort but he told the trainers he felt OK today. Thats why he was out there, Dubee said earlier in March. We ask for honesty from our pitchers. If a guy comes in and says hes ready to go, we take his word for it."

(more coming...)

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