MILWAUKEE — The Milwaukee Brewers have declined their $6.5 million mutual option on Braden Looper, electing to pay the pitcher a $1 million buyout.

The team had until Saturday to decide whether to exercise the option on the 35-year-old right-hander, who now becomes eligible for free agency.
After signing with the Brewers as a free agent on Feb. 12, he went 14-7 with a 5.22 ERA. He made at least 30 starts for the third straight season and established a career high in wins, which led the team. He also set a franchise record with 39 homers allowed, which led the majors, while also topping big league pitchers in runs (123).