Dodgers release former CY Young winner Gagne

Former Cy Young Award winner Eric Gagne has been granted his release by the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Dodgers spokesman Joe Jareck said the Mascouche, Que., native asked for his release Sunday, six days after he was reassigned to their minor league camp. Gagne had an out clause and could have become a free agent but initially accepted the assignment.

Gagne was attempting to make a comeback with the team he successfully converted 84 straight save chances and won the 2003 Cy Young.

The right-hander spent last year in the minors, pitching in the independent Can-Am League. He played for Milwaukee in 2008.

Gagne, 34, had a 20.25 earned-run average in three outings during spring training, allowing six runs and eight hits in 2 2/3 innings.