The Kansas City Royals are almost done with what will likely end up being a pivotal offseason for the franchise, and there's plenty of rumors to be had both from the trade and free agency markets as the new season approaches. Here's the latest news & rumors you need to know:
Greg Holland seeking two-year deal
Greg Holland has spent his entire career with the Royals, but they are going to have to meet his specific demands if they want to re-sign him. According to Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports, Holland wants a two-year deal with a opt-out after one season.
Free agent closer Greg Holland is seeking an unusual two-year deal with a one-year opt-out that could allow him to re-test a free agent market that showed a strong affinity for closers this winter.
Holland’s interest in such a deal should be no surprise after three of the biggest stars of this year’s class were Aroldis Chapman, Kenley Jansen and Mark Melancon.
Holland is drawing interest from the Rays, Dodgers, Nationals, Rockies, Brewers, Reds and others. The Cubs met with him before acquiring Holland’s Royals replacement, Wade Davis. The Royals have shown some interest, as well, as they are looking to beef up their vaunted pen, though they may not be too likely at the moment.
Holland has a 2.42 ERA with 145 strikeouts in his career.
Kansas City interested in signing Aaron Hill
The Royals are also one of two teams who have expressed a lot of interest in infielder Aaron Hill, according to Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe.
Hill, who was well-received by the Red Sox last season after he was acquired from the Brewers, has yet to surface with another team. But a few teams are in the market for a utility infielder, including the Braves and Royals.
Hill hit .262 with 10 homers and 38 RBIs in 125 games last season.
Royals continuing to monitor market
While some teams have taken their attention off the market this late in the offseason, the Royals are still trying to find players they can get on a bargain deal, according to Rustin Dodd of the Kansas City Star.
“When the music stops, there’s always going to be a few guys without chairs,” Moore said. “And unfortunately, for those players, the options dwindle. For the clubs that stay aggressive and keep their pulse on everything, you can get some potential deals.”
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