The Royals are focused on free agents Ervin Santana, Francisco Liriano, and Torii Hunter according to CBS Sports' Jon Heyman.
Royals interested in Ervin Santana, Francisco Liriano, per report
The Royals have to replace James Shields in their rotation and are taking a look at the free agent market to do it.
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The defending AL champs have holes in both their lineup and rotation, as designated hitter Billy Butler took his talents to Oakland, and staff ace James Shields declined the Qualifying Offer the Royals extended, and is expected to cash in on the free agent market.
Shields’ departure might be what enables the Royals to be a player for Santana or Liriano, both of whom would cost a draft pick to sign, as Kansas City will get a pick as long as Shields signs with another team. It might not be an even exchange in terms of where they pick, but it would be close enough that it’s worth signing someone of Santana’s or Liriano’s talent.
Hunter doesn’t carry draft pick compensation, and could be an option for right field/designated hitter, as Norichika Aoki’s departure leaves a hole in both spots. Hunter has been a productive offensive player even as he’s gone from one of the best fielders in baseball to one of the worst (if you buy into defensive metrics, and/or have the gift of sight).
Santana pitched for Kansas City in 2013, throwing 211 innings, recording a 3.24 ERA, and 161 strikeouts against 51 walks for the Royals. He declined his Qualifying Offer last year, netting the Royals a draft pick when he signed with the Braves. He's shown himself to be a good fit for Kansas City's ballpark, something that could give him an edge over Liriano who is said to be looking for a three- or four-year deal at a rate of $12M or more per year.
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