Royals Add Veteran Reliever Craig Kimbrel to Bolster Bullpen
The Kansas City Royals have signed nine-time All-Star closer Craig Kimbrel to a Major League deal to strengthen their bullpen. Kimbrel, one of history's top closers, brings extensive experience and a decorated career to the team.
Key takeaways
- The Kansas City Royals have signed veteran relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel.
- Kimbrel is a nine-time All-Star with 440 career saves, ranking fifth all-time.
- He is expected to pitch in various roles within the Royals' bullpen.
- The signing aims to improve the performance of the Royals' bullpen.
- Kimbrel expressed his desire to continue competing at a high level.
What Happened
The Kansas City Royals have finalized a Major League agreement with veteran relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel. He was activated and available for the team's series opener against the Dodgers. In a corresponding transaction, right-hander Easton McGee was optioned to Triple-A Omaha.
Background
Kimbrel, who is now 38 years old, has played for 11 previous teams and most recently had stints with the Mets and the Rays in 2024. He began the year on a Minor League deal with the Mets, was added to their roster in April, and after being designated for assignment, he elected free agency. He then signed with Tampa Bay, where he posted a 3.86 ERA in 18.2 innings.
Key Facts
- Craig Kimbrel has signed a Major League deal with the Kansas City Royals.
- He has 440 career saves, ranking fifth all-time.
- Kimbrel has a career ERA of 2.67 with 1,314 strikeouts in 884 appearances over 17 seasons.
- He is a nine-time All-Star, a 2018 World Series champion, and the 2011 National League Rookie of the Year.
- Royals manager Matt Quatraro stated Kimbrel will pitch in various roles, potentially early or late in games.
- Kimbrel expressed his continued enjoyment of competing and his eagerness for the opportunity with the Royals.
- He started the 2024 season with the Mets before moving to the Rays.
Why It Matters
Kimbrel's addition is intended to bolster a bullpen that has struggled. Manager Matt Quatraro indicated that Kimbrel's presence and experience could positively influence younger players as the team continues to build. Kimbrel himself stated he still feels he can compete with the best and is ready to contribute to the goal of winning games.
Sources reviewed
Project Chintan independently synthesized and analyzed information cross-checked across the sources listed above.
