Royals Make Huge Free Agency Splash With Top Starting Pitcher
By Joe Summers
The Royals mean business!
After aggressively pursuing Padres' starting pitcher Seth Lugo, the Royals have reportedly agreed to terms with the 34-year-old who posted a 3.57 ERA for San Diego in 26 starts last year.
This is a massive signing for a team desperate to reshape the roster. Here's the latest:
Royals News: Club Signs SP Seth Lugo
Right-hander Seth Lugo and the Kansas City Royals are in agreement on a three-year, $45 million contract, a source told ESPN.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 12, 2023
This is a beautiful day to be a Royals fan. Lugo was reportedly one of Kansas City's top free-agent targets. His addition provides stability and experience to a rotation lacking in both.
Lugo spent most of his career as a reliever with the Mets before joining the Padres as a starter in 2023 and the results could not have been more encouraging.
He threw 146.1 innings, striking out 140 batters while walking just 36 and compiling an 8-7 record with a 3.57 ERA. Lugo was one of the most reliable starters in the National League and now joins a Royals' team in desperate need of his ability.
At three years for $45 million, Lugo immediately becomes the second-highest paid Royal on the roster behind Salvador Pérez, easily eclipsing Jordan Lyles' salary as the highest-paid Royals' pitcher.
For a roster in need of reconstruction, Lugo's addition is one of the most exciting signings we've seen in Kansas City for years. Keep it up, J.J. Picollo!
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