Angel Zerpa – Kansas City Royals Biography, Contract, Net Worth Information

Angel Zerpa is a Venezuelan-born left-handed pitcher for the Kansas City Royals. Since his MLB debut on September 30, 2021, he’s been quietly carving out a spot for himself in the league.

Born in Valle de la Pascua, Venezuela, on September 27, 1999, Zerpa’s journey to the majors feels like one of those classic stories of international talent fighting its way up through modern baseball.

Angel Zerpa currently brings home a salary of $779,000 on his one-year contract with the Kansas City Royals, and his estimated net worth sits at about $1,029,051. At 25, he’s still in his pre-arbitration period with 2.082 years of service time as of January 2025.

That puts him in a good spot for possible raises in the near future.

The Royals signed Zerpa as an international free agent back in 2016. Since then, he’s moved through their farm system, which really shows how committed the organization is to growing young pitching talent.

Fans and fantasy managers alike are keeping an eye on him as he tries to cement his place in the majors during the 2025 season.

Early Life and Background

Ángel David Zerpa’s road to Major League Baseball started in his hometown in Venezuela. Those early experiences definitely shaped his path as a pitcher.

Family and Upbringing

Born on September 27, 1999, in Valle de la Pascua, Guárico, Venezuela, Zerpa grew up in a place where baseball wasn’t just a pastime—it was a possible way out of tough times.

Like so many Venezuelan families, Zerpa’s probably faced the country’s economic struggles and insecurity when he was growing up.

He honed his pitching skills on local fields, often improvising with whatever equipment he could find. Even with those challenges, his natural ability showed up early.

Family support seems like it played a big role in his baseball journey. That’s a pretty common thread among successful Latin American players, who often rely on family sacrifices to chase their dreams.

Education and Early Interests

Details about Zerpa’s education are a bit scarce, but most Venezuelan prospects juggle school with intense baseball training from a young age.

Baseball academies in Venezuela usually double as both schools and training centers.

Zerpa probably got hooked on baseball through local youth leagues and neighborhood games. Kids in Venezuela often play “chapitas” (bottle cap baseball) or other makeshift versions before getting into formal programs.

Coaches likely spotted his left-handed throwing pretty early since southpaws are highly valued in development programs.

Identity and Language

As a Venezuelan chasing an MLB career, Zerpa moves between cultures. Spanish is his first language, but like a lot of Latin American players, he’s probably worked hard to pick up English for his career in the U.S.

That language journey is just one piece of the wider cultural adjustment international players face. Venezuela’s deep baseball tradition gives him a sense of pride, even as he adapts to American baseball life.

Zerpa’s identity as a Venezuelan pitcher ties him to a legacy that includes stars like Miguel Cabrera, Félix Hernández, and Johan Santana. That heritage must be a source of inspiration and pride as he represents his country in the big leagues.

Professional Baseball Career

Angel Zerpa’s career so far is all about dedication and steady skill-building. He’s followed a path many Latin American players take, working his way from international signing up to the majors.

Signing and Minor League Development

The Kansas City Royals signed Zerpa as an international free agent from Venezuela. Starting out in the Royals’ minor league system, he began putting in the work.

His time in the minors showed he had real promise as a left-handed pitcher. At 6’0″ and 220 pounds, Zerpa’s build helped him stand out as a prospect.

Coaches in the Royals organization focused on refining his mechanics and adding to his pitch mix. As he moved up the ranks, his fastball command and secondary pitches kept getting better.

Zerpa, like many young international players, had to overcome cultural and language barriers while learning the ropes in pro baseball.

Major League Debut

Zerpa got his MLB debut with the Royals after his call-up from the minors. That first appearance was a big milestone for him.

The team mainly used him out of the bullpen at first, but he eventually started getting spot starts. His left-handed delivery gave the Royals more options on the mound.

He put in extra work during spring training, trying to figure out how to handle major league hitters. That preparation turned out to be pretty important.

Zerpa showed flashes of promise in the bullpen, though, like most young pitchers, he struggled with consistency at times. His ability to deal with pressure situations shaped how the team used him.

International Players and Representation

Zerpa stands as part of a long tradition of Latin American talent in MLB. His journey really mirrors the experience of many international players trying to break in.

The Royals organization has built a support system for international players, which helped Zerpa adjust to life and baseball in the U.S.

He joins a growing list of Latin American pitchers making their mark in the majors. His development path might remind fans of others like Aroldis Chapman, though he brings his own style to the mound.

MLB teams have leaned heavily into international scouting, especially in baseball-rich countries like Venezuela. Zerpa’s success highlights the payoff from those efforts.

Notable Achievements

Zerpa signed a one-year contract worth $779,000 with the Royals, which shows the team values what he brings.

His estimated net worth of about $1,029,051 comes from his early career earnings, with plenty of room to grow as he keeps developing.

On the field, Zerpa’s left-handed delivery gives him an edge against lefty hitters, making him a solid option in certain matchups.

He’s still finding his footing at the major league level, working on consistency and looking to expand his role. The Royals are clearly investing in young pitching talent, and Zerpa is a big part of that plan.

Contract Details and Transactions

Angel Zerpa’s time with the Kansas City Royals has included some key contract moments. His deals so far reflect where he stands as a young, left-handed pitcher trying to solidify his spot in the majors.

Contract Terms and Salary Progression

Zerpa’s contracts have seen a steady climb. In 2023, he signed a one-year deal for $721,400 after being added to the 40-man roster.

For 2024, his salary bumped up to around $779,000 on another one-year deal. That’s pretty typical for pre-arbitration players under team control.

Sites tracking salaries list Zerpa’s net worth at about $1,029,051, based on what he’s earned so far. He’s still in those pre-arb years, so the Royals have a lot of say in his pay for now.

Trades and Team Changes

Unlike a lot of players who bounce around, Zerpa has stuck with the Royals since signing as an international free agent in July 2016. He’s never been traded.

The Royals have shown faith in his development, moving him through their minor league system and keeping him out of trade talks.

Analysts sometimes float his name in trade rumors, especially at the deadline, but the Royals have kept him as part of their future pitching plans.

Free Agency and Offseason Moves

Zerpa is still a few years away from free agency. He’ll need six full years of major league service before he can hit the open market.

In the offseasons, he focuses on developing his skills instead of contract negotiations. The Royals can renew his contract each year within the rules set by the collective bargaining agreement.

Analytics teams look closely at Zerpa’s stats and development to decide his role and value. How he keeps improving his pitches and command will shape his earnings once he’s arbitration-eligible.

Angel Zerpa Net Worth and Financial Insights

Angel Zerpa’s finances include his baseball earnings, possible endorsements, and whatever investment strategies he’s starting to build for the future.

Earnings from Baseball

Angel Zerpa earns a salary of $721,400 per year with the Royals, according to SalarySport. His latest contract is a 1-year, $779,000 deal, fully guaranteed.

With 2.082 years of service time as of January 2025, Zerpa should see his earning potential rise once he’s eligible for arbitration. His career earnings have led to a reported net worth of about $1,029,051.

Like most MLB players, he started with a minor league salary and got a big bump after making his MLB debut on September 30, 2021.

Endorsements and Sponsorships

There aren’t any public details on Zerpa’s endorsement deals yet, but as a Venezuelan-born pitcher, he’s got some potential for regional sponsorships in Venezuela and Kansas City.

Most players at his stage sign equipment deals for gloves, cleats, and gear.

The endorsement scene for MLB players depends a lot on performance and exposure. As a Royal, Zerpa’s probably got a modest endorsement profile compared to the league’s bigger stars.

Agents usually start by lining up local sponsorships—think appearances at sporting goods stores, car dealerships, or local food brands that want to be associated with the Royals.

Investments and Business Ventures

Zerpa, who was born in Valle de la Pascua, Venezuela in 1999, hasn’t shared anything public about his investments or business ventures. Most MLB players get financial advisors early on to help manage the ups and downs of pro sports income.

Young players usually stick to conservative investments at first, then branch out as their finances stabilize. Advisors often suggest spreading money across real estate, stocks, bonds, and sometimes business projects back home.

For international players like Zerpa, investments might span both the U.S. and Venezuela. Currency swings and Venezuela’s economy probably factor into his decisions.

At this stage, he’s likely focused on building up savings and setting up long-term security through retirement accounts and income-producing investments.

Impact and Legacy

Angel Zerpa’s path in Major League Baseball is about more than just stats and contracts. His story is another chapter in the ongoing wave of Venezuelan talent making its presence felt in the big leagues.

Influence on International Baseball

Zerpa stands out as a major figure in Venezuela, where baseball is more than just a sport—it’s a national obsession. He grew up in Valle de la Pascua, Venezuela, and his journey from local standout to MLB pitcher gives hope to young Venezuelan players chasing their own big league dreams.

He moved through the Royals organization, and that path really boosted the club’s reputation for international scouting, especially in Venezuela. Baseball academies back home often point to Zerpa’s discipline and work ethic.

His success has sparked growth in baseball development programs in Venezuela, even though the country faces tough economic times. Local coaches use his mechanics and preparation as examples for young pitchers.

Contributions to Team Success

When Zerpa made his MLB debut on September 30, 2021, he started carving out a role as a key part of the Kansas City Royals pitching staff. He brings versatility, and the team uses him in all kinds of roles, which gives their bullpen some much-needed depth.

At Kauffman Stadium, Zerpa’s knack for generating ground balls and limiting hard contact has made a real difference. His pitch mix fits right in with the Royals’ defensive strengths.

Teammates and coaches like how he’s always ready for high-pressure situations. The Royals showed their faith in him with a $779,000 contract, betting on his potential to help the team in the years ahead.

Recognition and Publications

Even though Zerpa is still early in his career, baseball publications and analytics folks have started to notice him. Writers have featured his performance metrics in articles about up-and-coming American League pitchers.

Baseball America and FanGraphs have both highlighted Zerpa for his evolving pitch repertoire and the upside he brings. A few well-known baseball writers have added him to their “players to watch” lists for future seasons.

In Venezuela, sports publications keep a close eye on Zerpa’s progress and document his journey. Royals minor league coaches even use his story as a teaching example for player development.

Kansas City media regularly include him in coverage about the team’s international talent and future pitching prospects.

Personal Life and Off-Field Activities

Off the field, Angel Zerpa juggles his baseball career with personal interests and community involvement. He also faces health challenges that have shaped how he looks at life.

Philanthropy and Community Work

Zerpa doesn’t make a big show of it, but he’s become a community-minded player with the Royals. Since his debut in 2021, he’s shown up at several team charity events around Kansas City.

Back home in Valle de la Pascua, Zerpa gives back to youth baseball programs. He donates equipment and sometimes runs clinics when he visits during the offseason.

In 2023, Zerpa and a few Royals teammates joined the annual “Royals Charities” fundraiser, which brought in over $2 million for local children’s causes.

“Giving back to the community that supports us is important to me,” Zerpa said in a team interview last year.

Interests Beyond Baseball

When he’s not pitching, Zerpa likes to fish and spend time outdoors during the offseason. It helps him unwind from the grind of pro baseball.

He’s also picked up an interest in working on cars. In clubhouse interviews, he’s talked about how much he enjoys tinkering with engines, and he once helped a teammate with roadside towing after a breakdown post-game.

Zerpa plays chess, too. On road trips, he challenges teammates to matches, and that strategic mindset seems to carry over to his pitching.

He’s a fan of Venezuelan food and sometimes cooks traditional dishes for teammates during spring training. Not everyone can say they’ve had homemade arepas in a big league clubhouse, right?

Response to Health Shocks and Pandemic

Like a lot of MLB players, Zerpa ran into some tough, unexpected hurdles during the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2020 minor league season got canceled, which really threw off his development timeline.

Instead of letting that stop him, he spent the downtime working on his pitching mechanics. He focused on individual training, trying to get the most out of a strange year.

In mid-2022, Zerpa faced a pretty scary health shock. He left a July game against Boston because his left knee started bothering him.

That injury forced him to go through careful rehab, and honestly, it threw his whole season off track.

Zerpa didn’t just sit around, though. He teamed up with the Royals medical staff and worked hard to get back to form.

His recovery process involved some new training routines. He still uses those modified protocols today.

“Going through all this made me appreciate every chance I get on the field,” Zerpa admitted after he got back. Now, he puts more focus on prevention in his conditioning than ever before.