In a surprising move, veteran reliever Will Smith is leaving the Texas Rangers to join the Kansas City Royals, as reported by Jeff Passan of ESPN. Smith, a key pitcher known for his contributions to three consecutive World Series championships, will be signing a one-year contract with the Royals worth $5 million, along with the potential to earn an additional $1 million in incentives.
This marks a reunion for the 34-year-old left-handed pitcher with the Royals, where he began his MLB career during the 2012-2013 seasons. While Smith’s earlier stint with the Royals was before he gained All-Star status and multiple World Series victories, the move brings him back to familiar territory.
Smith’s recent success includes making the All-Star team in 2019 and playing pivotal roles in the Atlanta Braves’ 2021, the Houston Astros’ 2022, and the Texas Rangers’ 2023 World Series triumphs. In the 2023 season with the Rangers, Smith served as the primary closer, notching 22 saves in 27 opportunities.
Joining the Royals presents a new challenge for Smith, as the team struggled in the previous season, losing 106 games. While it might be a tougher road to pursue a fourth consecutive World Series title with the Royals, Smith’s decision to return to Kansas City reflects a desire to revisit his roots and contribute to the team where his MLB journey began.
Despite the Royals’ recent struggles, Smith’s addition brings experience, skill, and a winning mentality to the bullpen. The move adds an intriguing chapter to Smith’s career, and baseball enthusiasts will be watching closely to see how the veteran pitcher impacts the Royals’ performance in the upcoming season.
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