(CORRECTING SPELLING OF TARTABULL THROUGHOUT) 

*Danny Tartabull among three Phillies to test free agency*
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Danny Tartabull, a 13-year veteran outfielder who appeared in
just three games last season, was one of three players who
rejected a minor-league assignment from the Philadelphia
Phillies today and opted for free agency. 

The 34-year-old Tartabull signed a one-year, $2.3 million dollar
deal with a club option for a second season on February 20th
after batting .254 with 27 homers and 101 RBI in 132 games with
the Chicago White Sox in 1996.  In 1,375 career games, Tartabull
has 262 homers and 925 RBI. 

In a season-opening win in Los Angeles, the injury-prone
Tartabull fractured his left foot.  He was placed on the 15-day
disabled list a week later and was transferred to the 60-day
disabled list. 

After averaging nearly 19 homers per season, Tartabull scored
two runs, walked four times and struck out four times last
season. 

He has hit 30 or more home runs three times and driven in 100
runs five times in his 13-year career with Seattle, Kansas City,
the New York Yankees, Oakland, the White Sox and Philadelphia. 

Along with Tartabull, pitchers Billy Brewer and Scott Ruffcorn
have also rejected outright assignments and opted for free
agency. 

Earlier this week, outfielders Ruben Amaro, Rob Butler and Ricky
Otero, and pitcher Reggie Harris became free agents, and the
Phillies are still awaiting answers from pitchers Mike Mimbs,
Darren Winston and first baseman Mike Robertson.