Surprise, Arizona – On Friday, the Kansas City Royals finalized a three-year deal with All-Star left-handed pitcher Cole Ragans, worth $13.25 million.
The contract includes a signing bonus of $250,000, with Ragans set to earn $1 million in 2024, followed by $4.5 million in 2026 and $7.5 million in 2027. Notably, the 2027 salary can increase to $8 million if Ragans secures a Cy Young Award in either 2025 or 2026.
Currently 27 years old, Ragans will be eligible for salary arbitration after the 2027 season and has the opportunity to enter free agency following the conclusion of the 2028 World Series.
Royals general manager J.J. Picollo expressed his admiration for Ragans, stating, “He earned this contract through his hard work, perseverance and professionalism. He’s been an outstanding performer for us at a young age and his success is motivating to us moving forward.”
Last season, Ragans had a record of 11 wins and 9 losses with an impressive 3.14 earned run average (ERA) across 32 starts. He recorded 223 strikeouts against 67 walks in 186 and a third innings pitched, leading American League qualifying pitchers with an average of 10.77 strikeouts per nine innings. His performance earned him a fourth-place finish in the Cy Young voting.
Over the course of his four seasons, Ragans has compiled an overall record of 18-17 with a 3.46 ERA in a total of 53 starts and 17 appearances out of the bullpen. Following his trade to Kansas City from Texas on June 30, 2023, he has performed exceptionally well, posting a 16-11 record and a 3.00 ERA in 44 starts. This move came after the Royals traded reliever Aroldis Chapman, who played a pivotal role in helping the Rangers secure their first World Series title that same year.
