GK Jaime Penedo says he is leaving L.A. Galaxy

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Los Angeles Galaxy goalkeeper Jaime Penedo, center, leaps to make a stop against the Seattle Sounders in the first half of the second leg of the MLS western conference final soccer match, Sunday, Nov. 30, 2014, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)

CARSON, Calif. — Goalkeeper Jaime Penedo says he is leaving the LA Galaxy after nearly two years with the defending MLS champions.

Penedo announced his departure on social media Wednesday, saying he made the decision "because of principles."

The Galaxy’s official website reports the Panamanian goalie has been waived.

Penedo was a standout for last season’s championship team, yielding just three goals in five playoff games. He had 29 wins and 21 shutouts in 61 appearances for the Galaxy.

Penedo spent the past month playing for Panama at the Gold Cup tournament. Brian Rowe has started for the Galaxy in Penedo’s absence.

The 33-year-old Penedo joined the Galaxy in August 2013 after six seasons with Municipal in Guatemala, swiftly becoming one of MLS’ top goalkeepers. He is 6-4-6 for the Galaxy this season.

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