CHICAGO — The Chicago White Sox have declined their $16 million option on James Shields and exercised a $2 million buyout, making the veteran right-hander a free agent.
Chicago also exercised a $4.65 million team option on reliever Nate Jones and reinstated right-hander Michael Kopech from the 60-day disabled list Monday.
Shields was 7-16 with a 4.53 ERA in 34 appearances — 33 starts — last season. He had a 5.31 ERA in two-plus years with the White Sox, who acquired him from San Diego for prospect Fernando Tatis Jr.
Jones was limited to 33 appearances by a strained muscle in his right arm.
Kopech had Tommy John surgery in September after making four starts for the White Sox and will miss next season.
This article was originally published by Espn.com. Read the original article here.