NEW YORK -- Chili Davis ended his 19-year career in the major leagues when the Yankees gave him his unconditional release Wednesday.

	Davis

Davis, 39, had said late in the season that he was leaning toward retirement.

He hit .269 this year with 19 homers and 78 RBI but slumped in the second half of the season, managing just six homers and 26 RBI after the All-Star break.

Davis finished with 350 career homers, third-most among switch hitters, trailing only Mickey Mantle (536) and Eddie Murray (504). His 1,372 RBIs were third among active players behind Harold Baines (1,583) and Cal Ripken (1,571).

"Chili exemplifies character and class," Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said in a statement. "He was a veteran leader who, along with his offensive skills, brought professionalism and competitiveness to the ballpark every day.

"When we acquired Chili prior to the 1998 season, we felt he was one of the necessary ingredients in constructing a world championship team and he helped us win two."

Davis, who was hurt for most of the 1998 season, was the Yankees' designated hitter. Darryl Strawberry, back from colon cancer surgery, knee problems and a drug-related suspension, figures to be the DH against right-handed pitchers next season, with several players used against left-handers.

Last season, Davis had a chunk of his playing time taken by Strawberry, who missed the first part of the season because of a suspension. Strawberry is a leading candidate for DH next season along with Jim Leyritz, a free agent the Yankees are interested in re-signing.

The cost savings on Davis gives the Yankees more flexibility as they pursue other free agents, including right-hander David Cone.