The Kansas City Royals designated veteran right-hander Hideo Nomo for assignment Sunday while recalling right-hander Luke Hochevar from Triple-A Omaha to be the day's starter against the Oakland Athletics.
The 39-year-old Nomo gave up nine earned runs on 10 hits in 4 1/3 innings in three relief outings for the Royals in April after making his first major league appearance since July 15, 2005.
Royals assistant general manager Dean Taylor said if no club offers a trade, the Royals will release Nomo.