Center fielder Ian Desmond declined a one-year qualifying offer of $17.2 million from the Texas Rangers on Monday and is free to sign with any team.
Desmond became an All-Star in 2016, his only season with the Rangers, after signing a one-year, $8 million contract Feb. 29 and switching from shortstop to left field. He became the center fielder after Delino DeShields struggled early in the season.
Desmond, 31, is seeking a multi-year contract as a free agent. General manager Jon Daniels said that addressing center field is a priority for the Rangers this off-season, but Desmond isn't their only option.
Carlos Gomez, another free agent, is on the radar after a strong finish to the season after the Rangers signed him in late August. DeShields remains in the organization and could regain his everyday role.
The Rangers will receive draft pick compensation if Desmond signs with another team.
