Spring training: Ned Yost signs extension to manage Royals through 2018 season

Several times over the past year, Ned Yost floated the possibility of retirement when his contract to manage the Kansas City Royals expires after the upcoming season. Then he realized he was having too much fun winning.

So after General Manager Dayton Moore signed his own contract extension to remain in charge of the World Series champions, Yost decided to sign on for two more years. The 61-year-old Yost is committed to running the Royals’ dugout through at least the 2018 season.

The terms of Moore’s contract were not disclosed. The general manager since 2006, he had signed an extension in November 2013 that would have expired after this year.

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The Arizona Diamondbacks exercised Manager Chip Hale’s option for 2017. Bob Melvin’s former bench coach at Oakland, Hale is entering his second season at the helm of the Diamondbacks. The team went 79-83 last season.

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Texas Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton said Thursday he is dealing with soreness in his left knee after a second surgery.

Already in spring training with the Rangers in Surprise, Ariz., a week before the first full squad workout for the AL West champions, Hamilton is running bases, stretching and shagging balls in the outfield.

The 2010 AL MVP was among several position players already in camp on the reporting date for pitchers and catchers, who have their first workout Friday.