Phils release pitcher Gomez, OF Saunders

PHOENIX -- The Phillies released Michael Saunders and Jeanmar Gómez on Sunday.
They were designated for assignment Tuesday and cleared unconditional release waivers.
The Phillies signed Saunders in January to a one-year, $9 million contract. He hit .205 with six home runs, 20 RBIs and a .617 OPS. Gomez opened the season as the Phillies' closer, but he made just two appearances in that role before losing the job. He has a 9.64 ERA since Aug. 14.
Eickhoff could return Wednesday.
Right-hander Jerad Eickhoff is on the 10-day disabled list with a strained upper back, but he could rejoin the rotation Wednesday in Seattle. Eickhoff is scheduled to throw a bullpen session Sunday.
"It all depends on how he feels after the bullpen," Phillies manager Pete Mackanin said.
Eickhoff (0-7, 4.93 ERA) said his back feels fine.
"There's no tugs or pulls right now," he said. "I'm just trying to take it easy and ease myself back into it."
Right-hander Mark Leiter Jr. pitched in Eickhoff's place Friday, going six scoreless innings against the D-backs in his first big league start and picking up his first win.