Kansas City is apparently trying to upgrade its rotation with what’s left of the free agent starter market, as Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com reports that the Royals are “talking to” both Yovani Gallardo and Ian Kennedy.
Gallardo and Kennedy each turned down $15.8 million qualifying offers from their old teams and as such have draft pick compensation attached to their free agency, which helps explains why they remain unsigned.
Kansas City has a rotation in place after re-signing right-hander Chris Young, but the Royals could shift left-hander Danny Duffy to the bullpen if they bring in another veteran starter.
Gallardo had a nice-looking 3.42 ERA for the Rangers last season, but his strikeout rate dipped to a career-worst 5.9 per nine innings. Kennedy posted a 4.28 ERA with 31 homers allowed in 168 innings despite calling pitcher-friendly Petco Park home, but he also whiffed a career-high 9.3 batters per nine innings.