"Three Royals were automatically filed for free-agency at 11:01 p.m. Saturday in accordance with Major League Baseball's labor agreement.

Catcher Jason Kendall and left-handed pitchers Bruce Chen and Jeff Francis were among the 148 players affected. Kendall was, officially, reinstated from the 60-day disabled list before his filing took effect.

The labor agreement grants exclusive negotiating rights to a player's former team until 11:01 p.m. Wednesday. Thereafter, free agents are permitted to negotiate — and sign with any team."