Royals Bolster Bullpen Depth by Acquiring 2023 World Series Champion
By Joe Summers
The Royals aren't messing around this offseason!
Just moments after signing starting pitcher Seth Lugo to a three-year deal worth $45 million, the Royals agreed to a one-year deal with relief pitcher Chris Stratton, who won a World Series with the Texas Rangers last season.
Kansas City already made one critical move to improve the bullpen with Will Smith's acquisition and now J.J. Picollo has made another big signing.
Royals Free Agency: Club Signs RP Chris Statton
And the #Royals aren't done. They're also close to finalizing a deal with right-handed reliever Chris Stratton, source tells https://t.co/Ivs9s9EIaV. It would be a one-year deal with a player option for 2025, source says.
— Anne Rogers (@anne__rogers) December 12, 2023
Look at the Royals go!
Stratton spent time with two teams last year, starting with the Cardinals before finishing the year with the Rangers, winning a World Series in the process.
He had a 3.92 ERA on the season, compiling 81 strikeouts in 82.2 innings with only 25 walks. Stratton is a dependable relief arm and immediately injects life into Kansas City's bullpen.
To me, this rash of signings indicates the Royals mean business and intend to field a competitive roster in 2024. With Will Smith, Lugo and Stratton on board, no one can deny that Kansas City is making tangible improvements to the pitching staff.
I'd guess the front office isn't done making moves. For now, we can rejoice celebrating one of the best Royals' free agency days since 2016.
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