The Kansas City Royals have added a familiar name to their bullpen, signing veteran right handed reliever Craig Kimbrel to a Major League deal. The move gives Kansas City an experienced arm as the team looks for stability in its pitching staff during the second half of the season.
Kimbrel, 38, enters Kansas City with one of the most decorated résumés among active relievers. A nine time All-Star, he has spent 17 seasons in the major leagues and has recorded 440 career saves. His experience includes time with several contenders, including the Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers and Philadelphia Phillies.
The signing comes at a time when the Royals have been searching for answers in their bullpen. Kansas City has dealt with injuries and inconsistent performances from its relief corps, creating a need for additional depth and experience. Kimbrel gives manager Matt Quatraro another veteran option late in games.
However, the Royals are not necessarily expecting Kimbrel to immediately return to his dominant All Star form. His recent seasons have been inconsistent, and he has bounced between organizations while trying to remain effective. The goal for Kansas City could simply be to find a role where his experience and pitching knowledge can help the club.
Kimbrel’s presence could also benefit the Royals’ younger pitchers. With nearly two decades of major league experience, he can provide insight to a bullpen that includes several developing arms. Quatraro has indicated that Kimbrel’s role can remain flexible depending on the team’s needs.
For Kimbrel, the opportunity represents another chance to continue an already remarkable career. For the Royals, the signing is a low risk attempt to strengthen a struggling area of the roster.
Whether Kimbrel can turn back the clock remains to be seen, but Kansas City is hoping the veteran right-hander can provide reliable innings, leadership and experience down the stretch.
