"For the longest time, Gil Meche assumed he'd be pitching this season. Despite the shoulder problems that have limited his effectiveness for the last 19 months, the 32-year old right-hander says the thought of retirement had never even crossed his mind.

That is, until this past December, when it suddenly hit him that even with his recent move to the bullpen, the odds of him making it through the season were highly unlikely. He just kept thinking: did he really want to be the guy on the disabled list making $12 million?

The answer, after a month of deliberation, was no. And on Tuesday, the highest-paid player in Royals history made it official, announcing his retirement from baseball and his decision to walk away from the $12.4 million he was due this season.

"It's just the right thing to do," said Meche, who's not seeking a settlement from the club. "I'm not trying to look good. I just know I wouldn't be able to handle it if I got hurt again and wouldn't be able to play."

"It's very unique," said Royals general manager Dayton Moore, who admitted he's never heard of a player leaving this much money on the table in retirement. "There are a lot of risks in this game, and any time you give a long-term contract to a player, you take on the risk. Gil had every right to finish off the final year of this contract, and he chose not to."

The surprising decision brings an end to Meche era for the Royals, who suddenly find themselves with a payroll hovering around $40 million and an extra $12 million to spend.

"Hopefully, the Royals can find some guys to (spend) that money on and help the team win," Meche said.

Moore, however, said it's likely the Royals will head into spring training with the same roster they have now.

"Our plan is not going to change with regards to the young players we have on the horizon," Moore said. "We aren't going to do anything with long-term contracts that will restrict their transition to the majors.

"I don't see a lot out there that's better than what we have or will potentially have in 2011 or 2012," he added.

Moore lured Meche away from Seattle with a five-year, $55 million contract in December 2006. While the deal was roundly criticized, it looked like a smart move for the first 2 1/2 years. That's when Meche, who was determined to live up to the contract, played big brother to a blossoming star in Zack Greinke and posted a 3.74 ERA in 82 consecutive starts as the ace of the staff."