On July 29, the Kansas City Royals made a win-now move as they pushed hard for a postseason spot. And what a big move it was. The 2015 champs sent left-handed reliever Walter Pennington to the Texas Rangers in exchange for right-hander swingman Michael Lorenzen.
Lorenzen, 33, went on to have a big stint with the Royals, tossing 28.2 innings with a 1.57 ERA, 12 walks, and 22 strikeouts. He made six starts in the stretch run and pitched in a total of seven games as Kansas City secured a place in the 2024 postseason. As he entered free agency, he knew he secured at least a few million for himself with his excellent second-half performance.
Michael Lorenzen re-signs with the Royals
On Monday, MLB insider Jeff Passan announced he signed a one-year deal to stay with the Royals and try to repeat that magical run they had together last year:
“Right-hander Michael Lorenzen and the Kansas City Royals are in agreement on a one-year, $7 million contract, sources tell ESPN. Lorenzen, 33, was excellent down the stretch, and the deal includes a second-year mutual option for $12 million. Versatile arm, great clubhouse guy,” Passan wrote.
The Royals are retaining a solid, versatile arm
If the experiment works in 2025, both parties will have a chance to extend Lorenzen’s stay for 2026 for $12 million. For now, ensuring he returns to help get some important outs is huge for the Royals.
Lorenzen was used as a reliever in the off-season and also enjoyed some success, with a 3.86 ERA in a couple of games. It’s unclear if the Royals will use him as a starter or as a reliever, since Cole Ragans, Seth Lugo, and Michael Wacha are locks in the rotation. Kris Bubic and Alec Marsh are also alternatives to start games. Lorenzen is the perfect addition to the hungry Royals. He can help as a starter or as a bullpen piece and won’t complain in any role.
