SURPRISE, Ariz.
Royals relief pitcher Ross Ohlendorf has exercised the opt-out clause in his minor-league contract, according to a report from ESPN’s Jerry Crasnick. The Royals have a 48-hour window to add Ohlendorf to their 40-man roster or he will become a free agent.
Ohlendorf, 33, signed with the Royals this offseason after finishing last season with the Texas Rangers. After a rough start to the spring, he has settled into a reliable relief arm in recent weeks. His minor-league contract featured an opt-out clause beginning March 20.
Ohlendorf allowed five runs in two innings in his first two appearances.