Although the Royals rotation is most likely set for the season, the Royals are still interested in bringing in a starting pitcher. Lately, the Royals have been spending more on free agents than they have the past few seasons. I believe Ivan Nova would be a perfect Royals target on a cheap contract. During the 2020 season, Nova struggled with a 8.53 ERA but only pitched in 19 innings. I believe if the season would have been longer, Nova and many other players would have had better stats. Heading into the 2021 season, Nova will be 34. I believe at his age he has plenty of stuff left in the tank. The Royals have shown interest in multiple older pitchers in Matt Shoemaker, Adam Wainwright and others. The right hander has bounced around the league, especially in the American League Central. Nova had a decent 2019 season with the White Sox. During his time with the White Sox, he posted a 4.72 ERA with 114 strikeouts in 187 innings pitched. This means he can eat up innings. I believe Nova would challenge pitchers for the fifth spot. I believe the Royals could sign him to a one year deal worth between $3-$6 million dollars if they are looking to add another free agent pitcher to the mix. I think Nova would fit the Royals’ pitching needs perfectly in 2021 as a fifth starter. I also believe he could go deep into games if the Royals needed to rest their bullpen. Only time will tell if the Royals decide to add another starting pitcher with KC already having multiple in house options for the fifth spot in the rotation.
