D. Young released by Phils after refusing assignment

ATLANTA -- The Phillies made a low-risk, high-reward move in January when they signed Delmon Young to a one-year, $750,000 contract that included awards and performance bonuses.

They made another move on Wednesday, releasing Young when he refused an assignment to Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

Young was designated for assignment on Friday when the Phillies decided that right fielder Darin Ruf needed regular playing time as they begin to evaluate their needs heading toward the offseason. Ruf could be an everyday player in 2014, as he is one of the few right-handed bats in the lineup. He has been productive, hitting .274 with seven doubles, six home runs, 11 RBIs and an .888 OPS in 124 plate appearances.

Young hit .261 with 13 doubles, eight home runs, 31 RBIs and a .699 OPS in 291 plate appearances.

He earned about $1.75 million from the Phillies.

"He ended up having a couple of different streaks where he swung the bat OK, but he really didn't do the things we hoped he would do," said general manager Ruben Amaro Jr., who indicated that he would take another chance with Young. "I'll say it again. I think at some point he may end up being a much better hitter. I wouldn't be surprised if he comes back next year for somebody and has a much better year. You just don't know how guys are going to react to certain situations or certain opportunities."