As we all know the Royals are going through a rebuild. For small market teams like the Royals, they must build through their minor league systems. I think I found a pitcher the Royals should consider taking a look at—Jackson Stephens. After a somewhat rough 2019 season, the Reds outrighted Stephens to Triple-A Louisville. After rejecting the outright to Triple-A, Stephens elected free agency. Being only 25-years old, almost 26, Stephens still has a lot of upside. Despite his struggles in the minor leagues, Stephens has had a decent career in the majors. During his time in the majors he has posted a 4-4 record with a 4.83 ERA. Now let’s get to his pitching ratio. Stephens throws four types of pitches. He has a fastball that can hit the upper 90s according to redsminorleauges.com. His curveball has a good 12-6 break to it, according to redsminorleauges.com. Stephens also has a slider and a changeup. Sources say he doesn’t use his changeup that often. I think this would be a low risk, high award move for the Royals. With the Royals starting rotation mainly set, I could see them using Stephens as a bullpen piece. If KC were to sign him, I could see the Royals agreeing to a team friendly contract. Stephens has three years of arbitration remaining. The downside of signing Stephens would be he doesn’t have any minor league options remaining. To me this is a no brainer for the Royals.
