Cubs RHP Clay Holmes has declined his player option and become a free agent.

Holmes had a $12 million player option, so he always seemed likely to decline that after two solid seasons as a starting pitcher. A fractured fibula limited him to 101 1/3 innings this season, but he posted a 3.29 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, and 18.6 percent strikeout rate for the Mets and Cubs. He will likely be sought after as a groundball specialist who can round out a rotation. His fantasy value will hinge on the defense that is playing behind him.