The Royals have announced that veteran righty Chris Young has been designated for assignment. His roster spot will go to reliever Neftali Feliz, whose previously reported signing is now official.
Young, 38, is in the second year of the free-agent deal he signed to return to Kansas City before the 2016 campaign. He’s promised a total of $11.5MM under that contract, which included an option for 2018 that obviously won’t be picked up.
The results have been rather ugly since the sides put pen to paper. Though Young was surprisingly effective in his 2015 run with K.C., he has scuffled to a 6.52 ERA with 8.8 K/9 and 4.3 BB/9 over his 118 2/3 innings over the past two seasons.
Bummer. He’s been terrible for a couple years now, but I’ve always admired Chris Young as one of the most unique pitchers I’ve ever watched. I’m guessing this is the end, but kudos on a great career.
Agree at least got WS ring
Just a quick question if a player is DFA and has a player option can they still use it
I would imagine it depends on whether or not he is released. If a player is released, he’s owed whatever remaining amount is guaranteed per his contract.
I’m not sure what happens in the event of an outright assignment, though.
I’m going to piggyback on that and ask if a player is released and has an option, is that guaranteed money as part of the contract? I would imagine it is, I’d like to know with certainty.
The guarantee is just that. He’ll earn it no matter what.
In this case, that $11.5MM includes a $1.5MM buyout on the 2018 option.
In theory, Young could be claimed or accept an outright assignment — in which case he’d still be playing under the same contract — and the option could still be exercised.
But if he clears waivers (as is certain) and doesn’t end up being traded or outrighted, then the option disappears. He’ll still get the buyout value, though. It’s just as if the Royals declined it.
Thanks, Jeff!
Pass through waivers and come on back to San Diego. I’d rather watch him suck then Jered Weaver assuming Weaver comes back from his phantom injury.
Weaver isn’t pitching again ever.
So basically they’re maintaining the same salary structure. They’re going to pay Young what he’s owed – about $5.5m, and only pay Feliz the league minimum. Essentially a break-even deal for the Royals and they get someone who may figure it out.
Probably worth it. I think we know Young is done.