Philadelphia Phillies: Why Phils Should Let Roy Oswalt Go

It was big news when Roy Oswalt arrived in Philadelphia via a trade from the Astros back in 2010. It was also big news when he was sent to the DL in 2011.

But perhaps the biggest news was when the Phillies decided to decline his option for 2012, sending him to free agency.

While they still have the ability to bring him back for next season, the Phils would be much wiser to just let him walk.

He's Injury-Prone

Retirement is creeping up on Roy Oswalt, and it became much clearer when back pains kept him out of games this past season.

The tightness in his back is certainly a cause for concern, and frequent injuries are never good signs for a pitcher's career.

There's no reason for the Phils to even take a chance.

His Playoff Performance

The Phillies almost started Roy Halladay on short rest before handing the ball to Oswalt, but unfortunately they didn't.

The lesser Roy gave up five runs and was pulled in the sixth inning.

A poor playoff outing wasn't what Philadelphia was hoping for, and it ultimately lead to an early departure from the postseason.

He's Not Worth the Money

The Phillies already declined Oswalt's $16 million option for next season, so it's obvious he's not worth that much money to his current team.

The Phils are, however, interested in signing him to a lower salary. Probably a much lower salary than he will be willing to take.

Unless they can strike a good deal with the 34-year-old, he's really not worth the money.

He's Not Really Needed

Everyone already knows about the Phillies' stacked rotation because of big names like Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels, but they've also got a rising star in Vance Worley and, as always, Joe Blanton.

Roy Oswalt only started 23 games, but the Phils didn't really miss him when he was gone.

His loss won't hurt their chances of returning to the playoffs in 2012.