Michael Lorenzen's Mutual Option Declined, Now a Free Agent

Michael Lorenzen's mutual option for 2026 was declined by the Kansas City Royals, making him a free agent. He was guaranteed $7 million in a one-year deal with a $1.5 million buyout of a $12 million option, and earned an additional $1 million in performance bonuses. The 33-year-old right-hander, an All-Star in 2023, signed with the Royals in January and went 7-11 with a 4.64 ERA in 26 starts and one relief appearance. He experienced a stint on the injured list due to a left oblique strain.