PV talking to the media right now.
Lopez is in fact auto-protected (hasn't graduated from Generation Adidas yet). He joins Ellis, EPB, and Kempin.
Collin, Ellis, Saad and Peterson all were made bona fide offers so we'll keep their rights if they leave. (If I had to guess, all but Collin will re-sign.)
We exercised options on Kempin, Sapong, Opara, Dwyer and Sinovic.
PV is looking to bring in 2 keepers.
Sam McDowell: "Vermes said it's unlikely any of the six players whose options were declined will be back with the club but he didn't completely rule it out."
SM: When I asked Vermes if he was close to lining up a deal for a GK, he responded, "Getting there. Getting closer." (There's the Spanish keeper I've been talking about.)
SM: Vermes expects Ike Opara to be ready for the start of preseason. He called Chance Myers' rehab "more of a progression."
SM: Vermes said there have been talks with Collin since the end of the season, but "I'm not saying it's always good."
SM: I asked Vermes if he expected to have Claudio Bieler back next season. He replied, "As of right now, I do."
Tate Steinlage: According to Vermes, Olum wanted to leave. “If you don’t want to be here, I don’t want you here.” #SportingKC
TS: Vermes on Espinoza: “We’re still both activity seeking an opportunity. Worst case scenario would be he comes back in June.” #SportingKC (If I had to guess, it'll be June since he keeps talking about only pursuing him on a free.)