Luke Hochevar, one of the Royals’ longest-tenured players, may have thrown his last pitch for the organization.
The Royals on Saturday declined their side of a $7 million mutual contract option, allowing the 33-year-old Hochevar to become a free agent. The move was expected, and the club could look to retain the services of Hochevar on a more team-friendly deal. But that prospect could be complicated by Hochevar’s health — he has had Tommy John surgery and is coming off a procedure to address thoracic outlet syndrome in his right shoulder — and his advanced age.
The decision to walk away from Hochevar comes one day after pitcher Edinson Volquez and designated hitter Kendrys Morales declined their sides of mutual options.