Rangers Starter Could Be A Fit For Royals As Rotation Reinforcement
The Kansas City Royals recently closed the book on a tumultuous season. After losing 106 games in 2023, they bounced back and won 86, which was enough to secure a Wild Card spot.
After eliminating the Baltimore Orioles in the American League Wild Card Series, they fell short against the eventual American League champion New York Yankees in the ALDS.
Their rotation carried them in 2024, but it may be losing a key member, as Michael Wacha is expected to opt out of his contract. This leaves the Royals in need of another starting pitcher. Perhaps they could take a look at left-hander Andrew Heaney.
The 33-year-old starter had a decent season with the Texas Rangers, posting a 4.28 ERA in 32 starts. He also logged 160 innings and struck out 159 batters while posting a 1.25 WHIP.
The left-hander was saddled with a 5-14 record due to a lack of run support this season, but he gave the Rangers innings and was a durable option as a fifth starter.
Spotrac values him at $10.8 million per year, and that is something the Royals should be able to do if they want to add a starter to their mix to replace Wacha, assuming the right-hander doesn't return.
Perhaps he'll have better luck in Kansas City as the Royals try to build a contender for 2025.
He is projected to sign a two-year, $21.5 million contract in free agency.
We'll see what his market looks like and if the Royals could be a fit.
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Curt Bishop is a freelance sports writer who graduated from Maryville University of St. Louis with a Bachelor of Arts degree in the field of Communication and currently writes as a contributor for various platforms covering Major League Baseball. Curt’s work includes covering trade and free agency predictions, as well as rumors and news.