The Kansas City Royals today placed right-handed pitcher Scott Elarton on waivers for the purpose of giving him his unconditional release. No corresponding roster move has been made at this time. Elarton, 31, went 2-4 with a 10.46 ERA in nine starts for the Royals this season. He was signed by Kansas City as a free agent on Dec. 16, 2005 and served as the Royals Opening Day starter in 2006. He went 4-9 that season with a 5.34 ERA in 20 starts before shoulder surgery sidelined him for the remainder of the year.