Mike Morin grew up in Overland Park, starred on the mound at Shawnee Mission South High School and was drafted by the Royals in 2009. Eight years later, he may finally play for his hometown team.
The Royals claimed Morin, a right-handed reliever, off waivers this week, seven days after he was designated for assignment by the Los Angeles Angels. To create room on their 40-man roster, the Royals cut ties with left-hander Onelki Garcia.
Morin has spent parts of the last four seasons in the Angels bullpen, posting a 4.49 ERA and striking out 154 in 164 1/3 career innings.