Kansas City Royals add another potential bullpen option

The Kansas City Royals have not been shy about their desire to add to the pitching staff this offseason. While they have a solid nucleus of young arms for the rotation, finding a top of the rotation arm will make a difference in taking the next step. Likewise, the Royals bullpen was a disaster last year and needs a dramatic makeover.

The Royals have been able to make strides when it comes to the relief corps during the lockout. They have signed another potential upgrade on a minor league deal, agreeing to terms with Brad Peacock.

Kansas City Royals hoping Brad Peacock can be part of the answer

Peacock had a strong four year run between 2016 and 2019 as he moved between the Astros rotation and bullpen. He posted a 3.48 ERA and a 1.177 WHiP in his 320.1 innings over 128 appearances, including 42 starts, striking out 381 batters with 122 walks. He was the type of arm that could make a difference.

But that has not been the case over the past two seasons. He has been hindered by neck and shoulder injuries, the latter requiring surgery. Peacock has thrown just 7.2 innings in the majors over the past two seasons, being tagged for 11 runs on nine hits and four walks while striking out six.

While Peacock has not been close to the form he showed before, he is a worthwhile gamble for the Royals. They have been able to resurrect the careers of other relievers on minor league deals recently, having had success with Trevor Rosenthal and Greg Holland.

Kansas City could be a perfect landing spot for Peacock for other reasons as well. There are several open spots in their bullpen, including a swingman/spot starter role. It is a job that Peacock has had a great deal of success with in the past, and if he can prove to be healthy, could return to in 2022.

The Kansas City Royals are taking a chance on Brad Peacock. He could be their next lottery ticket that pays off in a big way.