Royals decline Perez option

? Odalis Perez’s $9 million option was declined Tuesday by the Kansas City Royals, and fellow pitcher David Riske turned down his $2.9 million player option.

The Royals must pay Perez a $1.5 million buyout. Riske filed for free agency.

Designated hitter Mike Sweeney notified the Royals he plans to file for free agency as well. Sweeney, the team’s highest-paid player, has seen limited action the past few years because of chronic back problems and a knee injury in July. His $55 million, five-year contract expired after this season.

Perez was 8-11 with a 5.57 earned-run average in 26 starts this year. Riske went 1-4 with a 2.45 ERA and four saves in 65 relief appearances.