Thomas Stripling: Everything you need to know

Stripling announced his retirement from professional baseball via social media Monday. Stripling was with the Royals in spring training before asking for and being granted his release after being informed he wasn't going to make the Opening Day roster. The 35-year-old was unable to land a contract elsewhere and has decided to call it a career. Stripling posted a 4.17 ERA over parts of nine major-league seasons, making one All-Star team in 2018.

The Royals granted Stripling's request to be released Sunday. The right-hander signed a minor-league contract a month ago but surrendered 14 earned runs over eight innings during spring training. Stripling had a 6.01 ERA in 22 appearances with the A's last year and will likely have to settle for another minor-league deal elsewhere.

Stripling agreed to a minor-league contract with the Royals on Wednesday that includes an invitation to spring training. Stripling has been a successful swingman at times throughout his career but had to settle for a minor-league deal after posting a 6.01 ERA across 85.1 innings with the Athletics last season. While the veteran right-hander will compete for a place on the Opening Day roster, he should be considered more likely to begin the campaign at Triple-A Omaha.