Kimbrel Signing: Veteran Closer Added to Bullpen

The Royals signed nine-time All-Star closer Craig Kimbrel to a major league deal on Aug 9. Kimbrel, 38, has 440 career saves but has been ineffective recently (5.09 ERA with Mets, 4.50 with Rays in 2026). The move is a low-risk one-year deal to add experience to a bullpen that ranks second-worst in MLB (5.32 ERA). A new analysis reveals the front office's strategy of targeting high-stuff arms, citing Kimbrel's TJ Stuff+ metrics and comparing to other waiver claims like Luke Little. Fans are skeptical but curious if he can find any magic left.