Kansas City Royals reportedly showing interest in Drew Storen

The Kansas City Royals are continuing to bargain shop for bullpen arms, as indicated by their reported interest in Drew Store.

The Kansas City Royals are expecting to have an improved bullpen in 2019, although they are sticking with a budget approach when it comes to adding veteran arms. Wily Peralta was retained, and Brad Boxberger was signed to a one year deal worth just $2.2 million. While those moves will help, the Royals do need other options to avoid the bullpen meltdown from last year.

That quest for bargains has led the Royals to an intriguing pitcher. According to reports, Kansas City is showing interest in free agent Drew Storen.

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There was a time when Storen appeared set to be the next stellar young closer. From 2010 through 2015, Storen posted a 3.02 ERA and a 1.129 WHiP, notching 95 saves while striking out 321 batters against 96 walks in 334 innings. Aside from the blip on the radar when the Jonathan Papelbon acquisition torpedoed Storen’s confidence, he was an excellent option in the bullpen.

Then came a disastrous 2016 stint with the Blue Jays. While Storen was able to right the ship with the Mariners, and to a lesser extent with the Reds, he required Tommy John surgery during the 2017 campaign. That procedure sidelined him for all of last season, making him a question mark for the coming year.

However, for a team like the Royals, Storen is exactly the type of pitcher they can take a chance on. Chances are, he will not break the bank, and will probably cost less than Boxberger did if he gets a major league deal. If he is healthy, Storen can be the type of pitcher that could improve the Royals bullpen, and potentially serve as a trade chip at the deadline.

The Kansas City Royals are reportedly interested in Drew Storen. As they continue to bargain hunt for relievers, he is the type of pitcher they should be looking at.