Mar 06, 2009 1:49 AM EST

The Giants released 36-year-old outfielder Dave Roberts on Thursday, a surprise move that could cost the team $6.5M this season, according to an Associated Press report.

Roberts signed a three-year, $18M contract with the Giants in 2007, but played only 166 games in his first two seasons because of injuries.

The Giants tried to trade Roberts over the winter and again this spring, GM Brian Sabean said.

Via AP