In an exciting development for Major League Baseball, All-Star pitcher Cole Ragans has inked a lucrative three-year contract with the Kansas City Royals. The agreement, worth $13.25 million, underscores the Royals' commitment to bolstering their roster with promising talent.
Ragans' contract features a $250,000 signing bonus, alongside a sliding scale of salaries: $1 million for the current year, escalating to $4.5 million in 2026, and peaking at $7.5 million in 2027. Notably, his 2027 salary could elevate to $8 million if he clinches a prestigious Cy Young Award in either 2025 or 2026.
The 27-year-old left-hander, who has become a cornerstone for the Royals, will remain eligible for salary arbitration post-2027, potentially entering the free-agent market after the 2028 World Series. General Manager J.J. Picollo expressed his admiration for Ragans' ascent, noting, He earned this contract through his hard work, perseverance, and professionalism.
Ragans' performance on the mound has been nothing short of impressive. He finished last season with a solid 11-9 record and a 3.14 ERA over 32 starts. His powerful arm racked up 223 strikeouts, averaging an impressive 10.77 strikeouts per nine innings—a metric that led American League pitchers. These achievements earned him fourth place in the Cy Young voting.
Since joining the Royals in mid-2023, following a trade from the Texas Rangers in exchange for reliever Aroldis Chapman, Ragans has solidified his position with a commendable 3.00 ERA over 44 starts. His overall record, encompassing four seasons, stands at 18-17 with a 3.46 ERA across 53 starts and 17 relief appearances.
The Royals are optimistic that Ragans’ signature will continue to bolster their pitching lineup, as his contributions have become integral to their aspirations for future success. The strategic acquisition has instilled renewed energy within the team, providing a dependable presence on the mound.
This contract not only reflects the Royals' trust in Ragans' capabilities but also highlights the player's development journey. As the new season unfolds, both Ragans and the Royals are poised to pursue further triumphs, setting an encouraging tone for what lies ahead.
