KANSAS CITY, Mo. — On Monday, the Kansas City Royals announced that outfielder Hunter Renfroe and reliever Chris Stratton had both opted into their contracts for next season. Additionally, right-handed pitcher Kyle Wright has been removed from the 60-day injured list, marking a significant update for the team’s roster.

Renfroe, who played last season with a salary of $5.5 million, is set to earn $7.5 million in the upcoming season. At 32 years old, he is looking to recover from a disappointing year in which he recorded a batting average of just .229, alongside 15 home runs and 18 doubles. His performance led to him often spending time on the bench during crucial moments of the season when the Royals were contending for a wild-card playoff spot.

Stratton, who had a salary of $3.5 million last season, will see an increase to $4.5 million next year. He also faces the challenge of improving after struggling with a 5.55 ERA and issues with command throughout the prior season, ultimately ending his tenure on the injured list due to a right forearm flexor strain.

Wright, who came to the Royals in a trade from the Atlanta Braves, was expected to miss the entire previous season due to shoulder surgery. Nevertheless, the Royals have remained optimistic that the 29-year-old righty, who previously won 21 games and held a 3.19 ERA in the 2022 season, will be prepared for spring training. He is seen as a candidate for the final position available in the starting rotation.

In contrast, the Royals opted not to activate their mutual option on utility player Adam Frazier. Instead of bringing him back for $8.5 million, they chose to pay a buyout of $2.5 million, following a season in which he struggled significantly, batting only .202 during his time in Kansas City.