Colorado Rockies decline Justin Morneau's option

The Colorado Rockies have declined their mutual option with former American League MVP and current starting first baseman Justin Morneau.

The #Rockies have declined their end of the mutual option with 1B Justin Morneau. pic.twitter.com/c6MKDftqke

— Colorado Rockies (@Rockies) October 29, 2015

The Rockies had a nine million dollar mutual option with the left-handed hitting first baseman for the 2016 season, but they instead declined. According to baseball reference, he had a $750,000 buyout. He played two years for the Rockies, his first in 2014 when he won the National League batting title with a .319 batting average. His second year in 2015 was derailed by injuries, limiting him to only 49 games. His concussion-like symptoms that have troubled him for much of his career came back after he got injured in May.

The Rockies are now going in a different direction. Ben Paulsen, Kyle Parker, and Wilin Rosario are the first baseman currently on their roster. It would not be surprising to see the Rockies go out and acquire a first baseman.

Morneau is now a free agent and can sign with any team.