The Kansas City Royals are adding veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel to their bullpen, agreeing to a major league deal with the nine-time All-Star.
The 38-year-old Kimbrel is joining Kansas City after stints with the New York Mets and Tampa Bay Rays earlier this season. He was designated for assignment by the Rays last week and became a free agent after clearing waivers.
Kimbrel has 440 career saves, fifth-most in MLB history, along with a 2.67 career ERA over 17 seasons. He was a key member of the Boston Red Sox's 2018 World Series championship team and has also pitched for the Braves, Cubs, White Sox, Dodgers, Phillies, Orioles, Mets and Rays.
His 2026 season has been a struggle, however. Kimbrel has a 4.81 ERA in 33 games between the Mets and Rays, with 32 strikeouts and 16 walks over 33⅔ innings.
The Royals are hoping the veteran can provide much-needed help to a bullpen that entered the weekend with a 5.32 ERA, one of the worst marks in the majors. Kimbrel is expected to join the team for Monday night's game against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Listen to KC Royals games on KFH Radio.
