The Mets have asked for unconditional release waivers on Brandon Lyon.

Lyon has a 4.98 ERA and 23 strikeouts in more than 34 innings this season.

The Royals have requested unconditional release waivers on Jeff Francoeur.

Kansas City recalled second baseman Johnny Giavotella to take Francoeur's roster spot.

Francoeur is hitting .208/.249/.322 with three home runs this season.

The Dodgers out-righted Carlos Marmol to the minor leagues Thursday after the reliever cleared waivers without being claimed and then waived his right to refuse his assignment to the minors.

Marmol is expected to report to Triple-A Albuquerque in a few days, but will initially go to the Dodgers' spring training facility in Arizona.