Should Royals Sign Star Pitcher in Free Agency?

The Kansas City Royals have made some moves already in the offseason, but they are not expected to be involved with the top free agent starting pitchers. While they could look to trade for a star position player -- such as Jarren Duran or Brendan Donovan -- Kansas City hasn't been mentioned as a landing destination for Framber Valdez, Zac Gallen or Ranger Suarez in free agency. With the starting pitching market moving rather slow, should the Royals at least inquire about the aforementioned pitchers?

Gallen may be looking for a short-term deal following his 2025 campaign. He's likely looking for a prove-it type of contract. If he goes out and pitches well in 2026, he could land a lucrative long-term contract next offseason.

Advertisement

Meanwhile, Valdez and Suarez both probably could sign long-term deals this offseason. If they don't receive the offers they are looking for, however, they could also settle for short-term contracts. Perhaps a two or three-year deal with opt outs could be an option. Those types of contracts have been fairly common in recent years.

If the Royals don't have to spend too much money to bring one of the starters in, they should consider signing one of them. Kansas City is quietly building a contending roster, and bringing in a Framber Valdez or Zac Gallen would only boost the starting rotation.

At the moment, Kansas City's roster features potential, but it is also rather young and inexperienced. The Royals' rotation features pitchers such as Cole Ragans and Kris Bubic, but it could benefit from another veteran presence.

Advertisement

Valdez, Gallen and Suarez are all established veterans who understand what it requires to find success at the MLB level. They would all instantly become one of the top two pitchers in the Royals' rotation alongside Ragans as well. The opportunity to pitch for a potential contender while leading a rotation may appeal to one of the star hurlers.

If the Royals struggle in 2026, they could end up trading whichever pitcher they sign. If they compete, then whichever veteran they bring in would help them fight for a playoff spot.

Small-market teams are rarely in the conversation for the top starters available in free agency, but now may be the time for the Royals to make a push and see what happens. It would not hurt to at least discuss a possible contract with one of them.