Kansas City Royals Trade News 2015: Joakim Soria Says Yes to Three-Year $25 Million Offer
The Kansas City Royals added some boost in their pitching lineup after news that right-hander Joakim Soria has finally agreed to sign on a $25 million contract for three years, though there are still some speculations as to what role the two-time MLB All-Star will be assuming in the loaded Royals squad.
Soria actually started his professional baseball career in Kansas City in 2007, but after suffering a damaged UCL in his right elbow, the team declined his option in 2013 and released him as a free agent. After playing for three more teams — the Texas Rangers, Detroit Tigers, and the Pittsburgh Pirates — he now sees himself reunited with his original club.
It was earlier reported that the Tigers were actually keen on bringing him back for next season, but they eventually decided to deal with Mark Lowe instead.
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But Soria's return may not be as interesting as most people see it. The Royals have Wade Davis, the pitcher who produced the final 3 outs of the recently concluded World Series, paving the way for Kansas City to win against the New York Mets. Davis should be the more dependable closer with Greg Holland still out and it's fair to say that the 30-year-old is one of the best relievers in the game today. Nonetheless, since Ryan Madson elected to join the Athletics, Kansas City's decision to sign Soria seems to be a good one at this point.
The 31-year-old veteran in his career has produced 2.57 ERA with 481 strikeouts based on a total of 451 innings played. Last year, he compiled 2.53 ERA in 72 innings. Suppose he will be assigned for the bullpen, it should be an interesting lineup for the Royals, with Wade Davis and Kelvin Herrera joining him. No doubt, this will be a strong bullpen in time for the upcoming season.
