The Kansas City Royals have been a revelation this season. After losing 106 games in 2023, they now find themselves just one game back in the American League Central, which is currently led by the Cleveland Guardians.
They could potentially be even better in 2025 as they look to build off of what has been a very successful 2024 season. The team could even look to spend some money in free agency again. '
If Michael Wacha departs in free agency, they could look at right-hander Nathan Eovaldi.
"Nathan Eovaldi has a $20 million vesting option that kicks in if he reaches 300 innings pitched for the 2023 and 2024 season," Jim Bowden wrote in The Athletic. "It looks like it'll be a close call on whether he hits that mark."
If Eovaldi does not hit that mark, he will become a free agent again after two solid seasons with the Texas Rangers. The Royals may very well lose Wacha in free agency, as he can opt out and will likely receive a longer-term contract.
But if Eovaldi is available, the Royals can take a chance on adding a proven postseason pitcher who can lead the rotation and join forces with Cole Ragans and Seth Lugo, both of whom have pitched admirably this season.
Those three at the top of the Royals rotation would make the team a serious threat to contend for an American League pennant in 2025. But Eovaldi is somebody who can be trusted to start Game 1 of a postseason series.
It will be interesting to see what the Royals decide to do this offseason after emerging as a surprise contender. Chances are they will want to contend again in 2025, and having somebody like Eovaldi would certainly give them a good chance to remain competitive.
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