Dodgers News: Scott Elbert Elects To Become Free Agent

Right-hander Dan Haren exercised his option for next season, joining Brian Wilson. They also extended a qualifying offer to Hanley Ramirez and will have other decisions to make before the spring. The biggest news of the offseason thus far has been the hiring of Andrew Friedman as president of baseball operations.

Coming as a bit of a surprise on Monday, a Dodgers left-handed reliever has elected to become a free agent:

Left-handed pitcher Scott Elbert has elected to become a free agent and has been removed from the Dodger roster.

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) November 3, 2014

Elbert chose free agency over being outrighted to the minor leagues. The left-hander made his return this season after missing the past two years with injuries. He was effective in his return and even made the postseason roster. Elbert allowed a big home run to Kolten Wong in Game 3 that gave the Cardinals the lead and eventual victory.

The Dodgers can still bring back Elbert next year and will likely offer him a new deal; however, with J.P. Howell, Paco Rodriguez and Daniel Coulombe in the mix, he could become expendable. There are also other relievers on the market that have more experience and better numbers than Elbert. The former first round pick may have some suitors based on his performance in the final weeks of the season.