Hudson elected free agency Friday.
The Rockies removed Hudson from their 40-man roster and he's choosing free agency rather than accepting an outright assignment to the minors. Essentially, it's a way for the club to non-tender the right-hander early, as Colorado was unlikely to offer Hudson a raise via arbitration after the righty posted a 6.17 ERA in 18 starts this season. Hudson ended the season on the injured list with right elbow inflammation but should be healthy by spring training.