Michael Lorenzen has signed a one-year, $7 million contract with the Kansas City Royals, featuring a $12 million mutual option for 2026. The right-hander, who was acquired from Texas, posted a 1.57 ERA in seven games last season, helping the Royals secure a wild card spot. Lorenzen's playoff experience includes a tough outing against the Yankees, where he took the loss in Game 1. With a career record of 47-44 and an All-Star selection in 2023, he aims to bolster the Royals' pitching rotation alongside returning players and others vying for starting roles.

Michael Lorenzen has re-signed with the Royals on a one-year contract worth $7 million, which includes a mutual option for 2026. Despite being ranked as the 38th-best free agent, Lorenzen's unconventional pitching style, characterized by a diverse arsenal of pitches, has led to success with a 106 ERA+ since 2022. In 2024, he posted a 3.31 ERA over 130 1⁄3 innings, demonstrating that traditional metrics may not fully capture his effectiveness on the mound.

Michael Lorenzen is attempting to transition into a two-way player, which could address both the Kansas City Royals' bullpen depth and offensive needs. After being acquired from the Rangers, he made a significant impact in 2023 with a 1.57 ERA over 28 2/3 innings, despite an injury. In 2024, he maintained a solid performance with a 7-6 record and a 3.31 ERA across 26 appearances, primarily as a starter, showcasing his versatility and potential value to the Royals.

Michael Lorenzen played a significant role in the Royals' successful 2024 season, contributing to their rise from 106 losses to 86 wins. He appeared in 26 games, primarily as a starter, with a record of 7-6 and a 3.31 ERA, striking out 97 batters over 130 1/3 innings and posting a 2.6 WAR. Known for his versatility, Lorenzen can function as both a starter and reliever, showcasing a diverse pitch arsenal, particularly excelling with his changeup and four-seamer. However, he is now a free agent, and predictions suggest he may sign with the Athletics, while the Royals have already re-signed Michael Wacha, mitigating the impact of Lorenzen's departure.

Michael Lorenzen, 32, is coming off a 2024 season where he made 26 starts and logged 130.1 innings with a solid 3.31 ERA. Known for his versatility, Lorenzen can effectively serve as both a starter and reliever. While he has had an inconsistent relationship with the strike zone, his ability to adapt and utilize his diverse pitch arsenal, including a strong changeup and four-seamer, makes him a valuable asset for teams seeking reliable innings. He is projected to sign with the Athletics for one year at $6 million.