
Eli Morgan joins Kansas City Royals after Cubs exit
Eli Morgan joins Kansas City Royals after Cubs exit
- Eli Morgan joined the Kansas City Royals on a minor-league deal after an injury-plagued time with the Cubs.
- He previously had a strong performance with the Guardians, earning a spot on their postseason roster.
- The Royals hope Morgan's talent will enhance their bullpen as they aim for playoff contention.
Story
In the context of Major League Baseball in the United States, Eli Morgan, a 29-year-old pitcher, has signed a minor-league deal with the Kansas City Royals. Previously, Morgan played for the Chicago Cubs after being acquired from the Cleveland Guardians in a trade in November 2024. His tenure with the Cubs was marred by injury issues, as he experienced an elbow impingement that led to a significant stint on the injured list. This injury limited his appearances and effectiveness, culminating in a lackluster performance in the minors during a rehab assignment, ultimately resulting in his exclusion from the playoff roster. Despite the setbacks in Chicago, Morgan had shown promise the previous year while playing for the Guardians, achieving a commendable 1.93 ERA during the regular season and making six postseason appearances. However, the Cubs’ extensive signing of pitchers left limited opportunities for him, leading to a mutual decision that it was time for a change. After being optioned to Triple-A at the end of the regular season, Morgan opted for free agency, seeking to revitalize his career with a new club. The Kansas City Royals expressed their intention to compete for playoff contention and are likely to view Morgan as a valuable asset in their bullpen, albeit with a crowded field of potential arms for the competition. For Morgan, the move presents a chance to reinvent himself in a new environment, where he will participate in spring training in Arizona with the Royals, looking to regain the form that once made him a reliable option in the bullpen. In parallel, the Seattle Mariners have made their own moves by signing Will Wilson, a third baseman who played for the Guardians. This signing comes amid a transition in their infield, where they are managing departures and exploring options to fill key positions. The Mariners are aiming to bolster their roster as they prepare for a competitive season ahead, which is reflective of the dynamic environment within Major League Baseball as teams plan for their futures during the offseason.