Should Kansas City Royals Pursue Jon Lester?
By Evan Massey
The Kansas City Royals have reportedly talked with Jon Lester about a potential contract with MLB free agency underway.
The Kansas City Royals are fresh off of an impressive postseason run that ended up coming short to the San Francisco Giants in Game 7 of the World Series. They are facing the possibility of losing starting pitcher James Shields in free agency, but they appear to have another name already on their wishlist. According to a report from Fox Sports, the Royals have already been in contact with Jon Lester’s agent.
More from Kansas City Royals
- MLB standings ordered by hard hit rate: Struggling Cardinals still cracking bats
- MLB Rumors: Cardinals surprise trade, Braves-Ohtani package, Yankees-Royals trade
- Tigers young star takes vicious shot at Royals pitcher over sticky stuff allegations
- Immaculate Grid baseball: Answers, connections, hints for Grid 104 (July 15)
- Rays-Royals rain delay: Weather updates for Royals game today, July 14
It is possible that the Royals are simply covering all of their bases, and it isn’t likely that Lester will actually end up in Kansas City. If that did happen, it would certainly be an upgrade for the Royals.
Lester split last season between the Boston Red Sox and Oakland Athletics last season, and finished with very solid numbers. He compiled a record of 16-11 to go along with a 2.46 ERA and 220 strikeouts. The Royals could use an ace that could put up consistent numbers like that, and if they can afford him it would be a good move.
All of that being said, the Royals are simply not in a position to give Lester the type of deal that he is looking to receive. They have plenty of holes in their roster that they will need to fill in free agency, but it is still very intriguing to see the Royals keeping all of their options open. It’s possible that they could decide to spend some big money in order to give themselves a chance to make another run next, but Lester is going to demand a very steep deal.
Kansas City will need to bring in another pitcher or two if Shields does end up leaving, but they can’t afford to sign one of the elite starters this offseason. They still have a good amount of talent on the roster for next season, but there are areas where they need to improve as well. Either way, it’s intriguing to hear that they are at the very least talking to Lester about a potential deal.
More from FanSided
- NFL rumors: Aaron Rodgers sets Jets up for Super Bowl run with new contract
- MLB Trade Grades: Dodgers land Amed Rosario from Guardians
- Colorado gives Pac-12 a possible death knell with move to Big 12
- NFL rumors: Dalvin Cook suitor maintaining very ‘real’ interest
- Braves get dose of bad news on Max Fried as ace nears return