Michael Lorenzen has signed a one-year contract worth $7 million with the Kansas City Royals, including a mutual option for 2026, pending a successful physical. The contract features a $5.5 million salary for the upcoming season and a $12 million option for 2026 with a $1.5 million buyout.

Since being traded from Texas to Kansas City before the deadline, Lorenzen has solidified his role on the pitching staff. Last season, he recorded two wins and a 1.57 ERA in seven games, which included six starts. He contributed to the Royals' wild card success and had two playoff appearances, although he experienced a tough loss in Game 1 against the New York Yankees.

The Kansas City Royals finished the 2024 season with an 86-76 record, securing the second wild card in the American League. They swept the Orioles but fell to the Yankees in the ALDS.

While the pitching staff showed promise, the offense struggled, particularly in the postseason, with key players like Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino underperforming.

Despite these challenges, the Royals made significant progress, marking their first winning season since 2015 and showcasing the talent of Witt, who emerged as a superstar.

Looking ahead, the team must address weaknesses in the outfield and bullpen while considering free-agent acquisitions to bolster their roster for a competitive 2025 season.