Royals Sign Former Phillies, Cubs 4.86 ERA Swingman

Why Velasquez Picked Kansas City

Vince Velasquez, a 34‑year‑old right‑hander, has agreed to a minor‑league contract with the Kansas City Royals, becoming a 10‑year veteran in the AL Central club. The deal follows his brief stint with the Chicago Cubs earlier this season, where he posted 3.1 scoreless innings and yielded just one hit. After being designated for assignment, Velasquez chose free agency and later opted for a change of scenery with the Royals, according to Mark Polishuk of MLB Trade Rumors.

Polishuk noted that the Cubs’ continual pitching injuries might have seemed like an opening for Velasquez, but the Royals—likely a deadline seller—offered a better path to an open roster spot. The move suggests Kansas City is positioning itself for a potential roster overhaul later in the season.

His Past as a Starting Pitcher

From 2016 through 2021, Velasquez was a regular in the Philadelphia Phillies’ rotation, serving as a back‑end starter. His most productive campaign came in 2016, when he recorded a 101 ERA+ and struck out 27.6 % of opposing batters. He debuted in the majors in 2015 after being selected in the 2010 draft by the Houston Astros.

After his Phillies years, Velasquez bounced between several organizations before finding brief roles with the Cubs and now the Royals. The 4.86 ERA highlighted in his profile reflects a career that has balanced modest strikeout rates with solid control at times.

What He Brings to the Royals

At 34, Velasquez adds depth to a Royals bullpen that has been replenished with arm‑tired veterans. His ability to throw scoreless frames—evident in his 3.1‑inning Cubs stint—demonstrates a capacity to lift the club’s middle relief duties. Though a minor‑league pact, the contract includes 10 years of major‑league service time, giving the Royals flexibility in the later half of the season.

Should Kansas City become sellers at the trade deadline, Velasquez’s experience could make him a useful asset in negotiations, offering depth while potentially freeing up a spot for younger arms.

Potential Impact for the Season

With the Royals leaning toward a possible roster shuffle, Velasquez’s signed contract serves as a strategic reserve option, especially if injuries arise in the rotation or bullpen. His past success at the minor‑league level suggests he could still contribute at the major‑league tier if the need arises. Going forward, the Royals will evaluate his development alongside other minor‑league arms, aiming to balance short‑term performance with long‑term sustainability.