PHILADELPHIA -- Outfielder So Taguchi was released by the Phillies on Wednesday, less than a week after being told his 2009 option wasn't going to be renewed.

The move was a formality. Taguchi signed with Philadelphia in December and batted .220 in 91 at-bats over 88 games in 2008. He initially served as a pinch-hitter and defensive replacement for left fielder Pat Burrell, but eventually lost that job to Eric Bruntlett.

Taguchi did not appear in the World Series.