The St. Louis Cardinals have released catcher Koyie Hill and infielder Alex Cora, according to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports. The two veterans were battling for roster spots this spring after being given minor league deals over the offseason, but it appears that neither was successful in their respective pursuits.
Hill, 33, had spent the past five years playing for the Chicago Cubs, getting significant playing time as the back-up to Geovany Soto since 2009. Regarded as a quality defender and game-caller, he's also proven to be a horrible hitter. Over 927 career plate appearances, Hill's .211/.275/.298 line reflects a level of ineptitude that essentially crushes his value in spite of he brings to the table defensively.
Cora, 36, spent last season in a utility role with the Washington Nationals. Appearing at all four infield positions, he hit .224/.287/.276 over 172 plate appearances in 2011, his third consecutive year of brutal offensive performance at the big league level.
For more on the St. Louis Cardinals, head over to Viva El Birdos, SB Nation's Cards blog. Stay tuned to SB Nation St. Louis for more breaking news and updates concerning all matters St. Louis sports, and MLB Daily Dish for all your MLB rumors and news.