Phillies general manager Matt Klentak officially declined the contract options of Ryan Howard and Charlie Morton. With that, the Ryan Howard era in Philadelphia is officially, officially over.
Howard had a $23 million team-option for next year, but will instead receive a $10 million buyout.
Morton was owed $9.5 million next season, but will receive a $1 million buyout from the Phillies.
#Phillies have declined the 2017 club options on Ryan Howard and Charlie Morton.
— Phillies (@Phillies) November 3, 2016
The Phillies essentially acknowledged Howard’s time with the team was over, severing off the final piece of the 2008 World Series team.