ESPN’s Jerry Crasnick reports that the Royals are expected to sign pitcher Ricky Nolasco. Given Nolasco’s age and recent performance, the deal is likely of the minor league variety. (Update: The deal has been finalized, per Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports. Nolasco will earn $1.5 million, can earn $250,000 in additional incentives, and has an opt-out date for March 24, Heyman adds.)
Nolasco, 35, posted a 4.92 ERA with a 143/58 K/BB ratio in 181 innings across 33 starts for the Angels last season. His last productive season was in 2013 when he pitched for the Marlins and Dodgers. Since 2014, Nolasco has a composite 4.99 ERA.
Nolasco will serve as rotation depth for the rebuilding Royals. The club recently placed Jesse Hahn on the 60-day disabled list with a sprained UCL and Nate Karns isn’t a guarantee to be ready by Opening Day after undergoing surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome last July.
