The Kansas City Royals announced Saturday that they declined relief pitcher Luke Hochevar's $7 million mutual option for 2017, making him a free agent. The Royals will owe Hochevar a $500,000 buyout.
The right-hander was a member of the Royals dating back to his major league debut in 2007. He signed a two-year, $10 million extension with Kansas City before the 2015 season.
Hochevar, 33, was 2-3 with 14 holds and four blown saves in 40 appearances last season. He posted a 3.86 ERA ,1.07 WHIP, struck out 40 batters and walked nine over 37 1/3 innings.