Morales, Volquez hit free agency after declining options

The Kansas City Royals made a number of roster moves Friday as they head into the offseason.

Designated hitter Kendrys Morales ($11 million) and right-hander Edinson Volquez ($10 million) each declined their mutual options in order to pursue free agency. Meanwhile, closer Wade Davis ($10 million) and shortshop Alcides Escobar ($6.5 million) had their options picked up by the club, though Kris Medlen ($10 million) had his option declined.

Morales, 33, hit .263/.327/.468 with 30 home runs and 93 RBIs in 154 games last season. He will be one of the top free-agent DH's on the market.

Volquez, 33, was a big part of the Royals' World Series run in 2015, but he struggled mightily in 2016. In 34 starts, he went 10-11 with a 5.37 ERA and 1.55 WHIP. Volquez has been very durable over his last three seasons, averaging 194 innings and 33 starts.

Davis, 31, is one of the top relievers in baseball. He posted a 1.87 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 47 strikeouts in 43 1/3 innings last year while converting 27 saves. He had his season shortened due to a right forearm injury.

Escobar, 29, continued to serve as the club's leadoff man. He hit .261/.292/.350 with seven home runs and 24 doubles in 162 games.

Medlen, 31, has battled injuries for the better part of the last three years. He posted a 7.77 ERA and 2.05 WHIP in 24 1.3 innings last season (six starts)