Ian Kennedy has a proven track record for success. Photo Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Kansas City Royals agreed to give right-hander Ian Kennedy a five-year, $70 million contract Saturday, according to multiple reports.
The deal includes an opt-out clause after the first two years. Kennedy still needs to pass a physical.
Kennedy, 31, went 9-15 with a 4.28 ERA with the San Diego Padres last year. In 2011, he won 21 games with the Arizona Diamondbacks. He has also pitched for New York Yankees.
The World Series-champion Royals were looking to replace righty Johnny Cueto, who recently signed a $130 million contract with the San Francisco Giants.
Kennedy had rejected the Padres’ $15.8 million qualifying offer for this year. Since he is signing with a different team, the Padres will receive a draft pick from the Royals as compensation.
Kennedy allowed 31 homers in 168 1/3 innings last season, despite pitching home games in pitcher-friendly Petco Park. Kaufmann Stadium is also kind to pitchers.
The nine-year big league veteran will slot in the middle of the Royals’ rotation that also includes Edinson Volquez and Yordano Ventura. Kris Medlen and Chris Young figure to round out the rotation but Danny Duffy and Dillon Gee could compete for a spot.
The Royals’ payroll could reach $140 million this season. They re-signed outfielder Alex Gordon, former closer Joakim Soria, outfielder Lorenzo Cain and Young this offseason. They also exercised options on All-Star closer Wade Davis and All-Star shortstop Alcides Escobar.
