The Phillies optioned Gonzalez to Triple-A Lehigh Valley on Sunday morning along with right-hander Hector Neris. Infielders Chris McGuiness and Chris Nelson, catcher Koyie Hill and right-hander Paul Clemens were also reassigned to Minor League camp.
Gonzalez originally signed a six-year, $48 million deal with the Phillies in July 2013, but the deal was decreased to a three-year, $12 million pact after some questionable results from Gonzalez’s physical.
The deal continues to be questioned by just about everyone after Gonzalez struggled as a starter last season in the minors. The righty was eventually converted to a reliever where he had a bit more success, earning a September call up to the big club.
Gonzalez would struggle with the Phillies, however, compiling a 6.75 ERA in six appearances as a reliever.
Now the 28-year-old high-priced foreign free agent starts yet another season in the minors, leaving many asking if the Phillies front office made yet another poor signing.
By: Kyle Babcock
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