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Axford a free agent after clearing waivers

Veteran closer John Axford cleared waivers on Wednesday and is now a free agent after being designated for assignment last week by the Rockies.

The 32-year-old right-hander was released by Colorado after going 4-5 with 25 saves and a 4.20 ERA in 60 relief outings last season.

Rockies general manager Jeff Bridich said Friday the club attempted to negotiate a new deal with Axford, but they couldn't come to an agreement. Axford earned $2.6 million last season after initially agreeing to a Minor League deal with Colorado, but he is in line for a significant pay increase next year in his final season of arbitration eligibility.

Axford led the Majors with 46 saves in 2011 for the Brewers and has a career record of 28-28 with 141 saves and a 3.52 ERA over seven seasons in 403 Major League outings.

It's possible for Axford to still return to the Rockies, but as a free agent, he's now able to sign with any of the 30 MLB teams.

Greg Johns is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter @GregJohnsMLB, read his Mariners Musings blog, and listen to his podcast.
Read More: Colorado Rockies, John Axford