The Rockies will not pick up a contract option with veteran first baseman Justin Morneau for 2016, the team said Thursday, likely ending his time in Colorado.
Morneau, 34, had a $9 million mutual option in his contract next season after the Rockies signed him to two guaranteed years in late 2013. He made $4 million in 2014 and $6.75 million this season. By declining the third year, the Rockies owe Morneau a $750,000 buyout.
The former Minnesota Twins star stabilized the Rockies at first base after franchise stalwart Todd Helton retired in 2013.