PHOENIX — Matt Williams, the last of the original Diamondbacks and a five-time All-Star with 378 career home runs, has played his final game for Arizona.
The Diamondbacks announced Sunday that the 37-year-old third baseman has been designated for assignment. The move follows the team's acquisition of third baseman Shea Hillenbrand from Boston for pitcher Byung-Hyun Kim.
"With the trade for Hillenbrand, it became apparent there just wasn't going to be any meaningful playing time for Matty," general manager Joe Garagiola Jr. said.
Williams, in his 16th major league season, was told of the decision Saturday night. After Arizona's 8-7 loss in San Diego, he packed his belongings, exchanged hugs with several teammates and quietly confirmed to reporters that he had been released.
"He took it like a professional," manager Bob Brenly said before Sunday's game at San Diego. "He didn't make any excuses. He didn't lay any blame anywhere."