3 Royals Playing Their Final Home Series in Kansas City

3. Chris Stratton - RP

Perhaps no Royal has had a worse season than Chris Stratton, who has proven to be the team's worst offseason acquisition. His control has been disastrous, walking 33 batters in 57.1 innings while recording just 44 strikeouts, and his 5.55 ERA showcases the messes he's frequently caused on the mound.

Stratton is currently on the injured list, but it's unlikely he pitches for the Royals again. There's no chance Matt Quatraro can trust him in a high-leverage spot, and it's overwhelmingly likely that Kansas City just washes its hands of him when the season's over.

He had a 12.27 ERA in September before suffering the injury. After a 6.94 ERA in August, it's clear Stratton's poor season can't get any better. He needs an offseason to get healthy and work on his command, though hopefully will find another team in the 2025 season.

Few bullpen pitchers should return. It's been a disastrous unit all year long and is the single biggest focus for J.J. Picollo and his staff this offseason. Improvements are needed at almost every spot, making Stratton an almost-certain casualty.

Not every offseason signing will work out. Picollo did a fantastic job flipping this club from a 56-win team to one that should make the playoffs. Even still, Stratton represents a giant swing-and-miss.

We wish him well, but Royals fans shouldn't see Stratton again in Kansas City.

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