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Zack Greinke perfect fit for Kansas City Royals

By David Hill

Oct 19, 2021; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Zack Greinke (21) walks off of the field during the second inning of game four of the 2021 ALCS at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 19, 2021; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Zack Greinke (21) walks off of the field during the second inning of game four of the 2021 ALCS at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Kansas City Royals have been relatively quiet all offseason. While they have stated their intention of contending in 2022 and beyond, they have not done much to indicate that is actually the plan. Their minor league signings have been intriguing, but it will take far more than those players to bring the Royals into contension.

The same could be said for their signing of Zack Greinke. He has come home to Kansas City, signing a one year deal worth $13 million with an additional $2 million in incentives.

Zack Greinke provides Kansas City Royals more than his numbers

It is fair to consider that contract an overpay for Greinke. His stuff is not what it was at the height of his powers and it reflected in his performance last year. He posted a 4.16 ERA and a 1.170 WHiP in his 171 innings, striking out 120 batters with 36 walks. Those numbers are perfectly fine for a back of the rotation arm, but Greinke is being paid as though he is the Royals’ ace.

But there is a lot more to Greinke than his production on the mound. He is known for his ability to see things that other pitchers cannot, even giving tips to hitters during the game. Greinke has been through all the battles, pitching in the postseason and World Series. His struggles with his mental health issues give him a perspective that few others in the game can bring forth.

That is perfect for a team with as many young arms as the Royals have. He would essentially be a de facto pitching coach, someone who can help mentor those arms and teach them what it takes to find success in the majors. That experience and leadership could pay off for years to come.

It is something that the Royals have looked for in the past few years. Bringing back the likes of Mike Minor, Wade Davis, and Greg Holland were ways to bring that leadership and experience to the roster. But now that they are looking to contend, they also need more than a lottery ticket. The need the production that Greinke can still provide.

Next. X-factors for the AL Central. dark

Zack Greinke is back with the Kansas City Royals. He is exactly what they needed for their young pitching staff in more ways than one.

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