The Pirates, having traded for left-handed, power-hitting corner outfielder Corey Dickerson, let Michael Saunders go from his agreement made with the team under different circumstances on Wednesday, and Saunders has signed a minor-league contract with the Kansas City Royals.
SB Nation’s Chris Cotillo added detail from Saunders’ agent:
Michael Saunders' agent, Barry Meister, confirms Pirates released Saunders to give him the opportunity to sign elsewhere once "the opportunity changed".
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) February 23, 2018
Meister: "As per the agreement with PIT, when the opportunity changed, the Pirates and specifically Neal Huntington were gracious enough to allow Michael to seek another opportunity.