MLB Rumors: James Shields willing to sign long-term with Kansas City Royals
By Josh Hill
The Kansas City Royals seem to be on the cusp of being really good but are in danger of losing some key pieces this offseason that could reset the team’s chances of being contenders. One way the Royals can avoid falling into old habits would be to sign pitcher James Shields to a long-term deal, and that appears to be something both sides want to strive for.
According to Royals writer Dick Kaegel, Shields is willing to sign long-term with the Royals this summer.
"Shields hasn’t discussed the matter so far with general manager Dayton Moore and, if they don’t get around to it before Opening Day, it’s not likely to happen in season.“During the season, my main focus is trying to win games and really get some wins for this team,” Shields said."
It’s likely that Shields is seeing the market for pitchers and isn’t stoked about hitting free agency to just float around all winter long. He’s not a free agent until next offseason, but it would be in the Royals best interest to lock up Shields long-term now and check that off their list of things to do.