As the MLB offseason nears its end and spring training approaches, the Kansas City Royals still have notable gaps in their roster. After an active start to the winter, which included re-signing pitcher Michael Wacha and acquiring second baseman Jonathan India from the Cincinnati Reds, the Royals have been relatively quiet. Though they’ve recently ramped up their activity, there’s still room for improvement across the roster.
While the pool of free agents continues to shrink, there are still valuable players who could help strengthen the Royals before the 2025 season begins. Here are four free agents the Royals should consider adding to their roster.Following a disappointing 2024 campaign, the Royals’ bullpen is in need of significant improvement.
Kansas City ranked 20th in the majors with a 4.13 ERA and dead last in strikeouts with just 463. Despite some recent activity, the team has yet to acquire a high-leverage reliever to support closer Lucas Erceg.
Although the Royals were linked to several bullpen options this offseason, many of the top names are off the board. However, Carlos Estévez remains a viable option. After a career-best season in 2024, the 32-year-old right-hander could be exactly what the Royals need to strengthen their bullpen.
Estévez began the season with the Los Angeles Angels, posting a 2.38 ERA, 0.74 WHIP, 32 strikeouts, and 20 saves in 34 innings before being traded to the Philadelphia Phillies. He continued to perform well with Philadelphia, finishing with a 2.57 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 18 strikeouts, and 6 saves in 21 innings.
While there’s a risk of regression—his career ERA stands at 4.21, and his previous low ERA was 3.47 in 2022—his 2024 performance was outstanding. If he can maintain even a fraction of that success, Estévez would be a valuable addition to the Royals’ bullpen.
