The Kansas City Royals just signed veteran lefty Dallas Keuchel to a minor league deal. Keuchel, now 37 and a former Cy Young winner, brings a lot of experience—and, let’s be honest, some hardware—to the Royals.
He hasn’t pitched in the majors for almost a year. The Royals hope he can add some stability and leadership to their pitching staff.
He’ll start out in Triple-A Omaha. Keuchel has to show he’s still got something left if he wants another shot in the big leagues.
The Royals Bet on Experience: Dallas Keuchel Joins the Roster
Signing Keuchel feels like a classic low-risk, high-reward move for Kansas City. Once, he was one of the most reliable arms in the game, and now he brings that pedigree to the Royals.
His last big league stint came in 2024 with the Brewers. He put up a 5.40 ERA over four starts and got designated for assignment in July—not exactly headline numbers, but the Royals see something worth another look.
The Transition to Triple-A Omaha
Keuchel’s comeback starts in Triple-A Omaha. He’ll try to sharpen his stuff and win over Royals management.
If he gets the call to the majors, he stands to make a prorated $2 million. That shows Kansas City’s trying to be smart with their budget but still wants some veteran depth.
A Storied Career Revisited
Keuchel’s career has been a mix of highs and constant change. He’s a two-time All-Star and has five Gold Gloves to his name.
He peaked in 2015, winning the AL Cy Young as Houston’s ace. That same run helped the Astros to their controversial 2017 World Series title.
Since leaving Houston in 2018, Keuchel’s bounced around—six teams in five seasons. Atlanta, Chicago, Arizona, Texas, Milwaukee… he’s seen a lot of clubhouses.
Recent Challenges for a Veteran
But lately, it’s been rough. Over 13 years, he’s got a 4.04 ERA and a 103-92 record in 282 appearances (267 starts).
Recent seasons haven’t been kind, and his velocity just isn’t what it used to be. Hitters have been squaring him up more often, and it’s fair to wonder if he can really hang at the top level anymore.
His last real success came with the White Sox in 2020, when he posted a 1.99 ERA during the shortened season. That feels like a long time ago now.
What This Move Signals for the Royals
For Kansas City, bringing Keuchel into the minor league system isn’t just about innings. Teams value veterans for more than their stats—they can steady a clubhouse, mentor young guys, and just keep things from getting too shaky.
The Royals are rebuilding, and maybe Keuchel helps anchor an unpredictable pitching staff. Sometimes, you just need someone who’s been through it all.
A Need for Pitching Depth
Pitching’s been a real issue for Kansas City lately. Keuchel’s signing signals they know they need more arms.
Injuries and inconsistency have slowed their progress. He’s not the ace he used to be, but if he gets the call, maybe he can eat some innings and give the staff a breather.
Looking Ahead: A Shot at Redemption
For Keuchel, this minor league deal is a shot at redemption. If he can find some form in Omaha, maybe there’s one last run in the majors left for him.
The Royals have given veterans a chance to shine before. Keuchel could be their next reclamation story—if things break right.
Can Keuchel Find His Mojo Again?
Here’s the real question: Can Keuchel ever get back to the form that made him one of baseball’s best? His recent numbers don’t exactly shout “comeback,” but you can’t ignore his history of adapting.
He’s pulled off surprises before, so maybe there’s a twist left in his story. If he manages it, well, he’ll remind everyone there’s still a place for a crafty veteran in the big leagues.
The Kansas City Royals took a chance on Dallas Keuchel, but you can tell they’re keeping their expectations in check. Now, with the season rolling along, everyone’s glancing toward Triple-A Omaha.
Can the former Cy Young winner find some of that old spark and actually help a Royals team desperate for pitching help? Guess we’ll see soon enough.
Here is the source article for this story: Royals sign former Cy Young winner Keuchel
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