Bosox Release Cordero

Almost as quickly as they finished their dismal season, the Boston Red Sox also ended their relationship with outfielder Wilfredo Cordero.

Cordero was placed on unconditional release waivers by the Red Sox, moments after a 3-2 loss in Toronto on Sunday.

The left fielder hit .281 with 18 homers and 72 RBIs in 140 games, finishing with a career-high 11-game hitting streak.

Also, a judge refused to throw out spousal abuse charges against Cordero, disputing a defense claim that he is being selectively prosecuted because of his name.

St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Mark McGwire and Cincinnati Reds closer Jeff Shaw were voted the National League player and pitcher of the month for September.

McGwire hit 14 home runs, had 23 RBIs and a slugging percentage of .729 for the month.

Shaw saved 14 games in 15 appearances, and finished the season with a National League-best 42 saves.

John Olerud, who had 14 RBIs in six games for the New York Mets, won the National League player of the week award. For the period Sept. 22-28, the former Washington State standout hit .429 with three home runs. He walked seven times and scored seven runs.

Kansas City’s Jeff King won the American League player of the week award. For the period Sept. 22-28, King led the league with 14 RBIs and 26 total bases. In seven games, King batted .393 with three doubles and four home runs. He had a .929 slugging percentage and a .438 on-base percentage for the week.

The Boston Red Sox acquired right-hander Jim Mecir from the New York Yankees as the player to be named from a trade involving veteran Mike Stanley.