[BoSox21]

NEW YORK - First baseman Andy Phillips refused the New York Yankees' outright assignment to triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Friday and became a free agent.

Phillips was designated for assignment on Tuesday, when the Yankees needed to clear a roster spot for backup catcher Jose Molina, who finalized a US$4-million, two-year contract.

Phillips batted .292 with two homers and 25 RBIs in 61 games for the Yankees. Promoted from triple-A on June 19, he played extensively at first base in place of injured Doug Mientkiewicz.

-Associated Press