Outfielder Austin Kearns has parted ways with the Washington Nationals after wrapping up his 3 year $17.5 million contract.  The Nationals have decided to not excercise the 2010 team option for Kearns, valued at $10 million.  Rather, they are going to buyout his contract for $1 million.

Kearns was injured most of the year with thumb problems and therefore limiting him to 3 HR’s, 17 RBI’s and a .195 batting average.