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Royals release pitcher Ricky Nolasco, outfielder Michael Saunders | The Wichita Eagle

The Royals on Saturday released pitcher Ricky Nolasco and outfielder Michael Saunders, each of whom was on a minor-league contract with opt-out clauses.

Saunders, signed by the Royals one day before they began Cactus League competition in February, declined an assignment to Class AAA Omaha. Had the Royals not stashed Nolasco, a veteran starter, in the minor leagues, they would have owed him a retention bonus.

Saunders appeared in sixteen games this spring. He hit .275 with three doubles and seven RBIs and drew five walks. He entered Royals camp in the middle of a crowded outfield competition, not too unlike his previous situation with the Pirates.