Suppan was released Monday, after going 0-2 with a 7.84 ERA in 15 appearances this season. After starting the year on the disabled list, Suppan made two starts before being moved to the bullpen.
"Jeff has always been a true professional," said General Manager Doug Melvin. "He gave his best effort to the organization, whether it was on the field or in the community. I am confident that he can return to a starting rotation with another organization. We wish Jeff and his family nothing but the best."
Since signing a $42 million contract with the Brewers after the 2006 season, Suppan posted a 29-36 record with a 5.08 ERA.
He was signed in large part because of his Most Valuable Player performance in the 2006 National League Division Series while a member of the St. Louis Cardinals. He went 12-7 that season and was regarded as a good, veteran influence with a tendency to make 30 or more starts and eat innings.
The deal was the first major free agent signing under principal owner Mark Attanasio. The sides agreed to the contract during a holiday dinner at Attanasio's Los Angeles-area home.
His best season came in 2007, when he started 34 games, went 12-12 and finished with a 4.62 ERA. Suppan went 10-10 in 2008 but after a red-hot August (5-0, 3.00 ERA), Suppan struggled down the stretch and was chased early in his lone post-season appearance with the Brewers.
Suppan was being paid just over $12 million this season, which the Brewers will still have to pay. The team is also on the hook for a $2 million buyout for next season.
"Nobody is more disappointed than I am in how things went out," Suppan said in a statement released by the team Monday afternoon. "I enjoyed my time here in Milwaukee both as a player and a member of the community."
While Suppan struggled on the field, he was one of the most charitable players off it. He gave to many area organizations and began a program providing tickets to members of the armed forces.
A devout Roman Catholic, Suppan also arranged for Mass to be held at Miller Park on Saturday afternoons for players and other team employees and game staff who otherwise would have to miss Mass because of games.
He plans to continue his relationship with Brewers Charities through the remainder of the season.
"My commitment to this cause and the people it serves is unwavering," Suppan said.
By releasing Suppan, the team clears space on both the 25 and 40-man roster, which will allow them to replace Todd Coffey, who was placed on the disabled list Sunday with a thumb injury.
The Brewers purchased the contract of Chris Smith from Class AAA Nashville. Smith will be in uniform for tomorrow night’s game against the Cubs.
Smith made 35 relief appearances with Milwaukee last season, going 0-0 with a 4.11 ERA. He was 2-1 with a 1.71 ERA and 16 saves in 23 relief appearances with Nashville this season.
