DONE DEAL: The Kansas City Royals have just sign another Shortstop for $182 million….
Austin Nola was on the Kansas City Royals’ radar over the offseason. Nola, 34, met a lot of requirements. He caught seasoned free-agent pitcher signings Seth Lugo and Michael Wacha in addition to his years of major league experience, which included time spent with the San Diego Padres. The Royals general manager, J.J. Picollo, stated, “We really had it as a target early in the offseason because of the track record and knowing how important catching depth is.” “It’s hard, considering what we went through the previous year. But it’s a plus for us to have someone with that level of experience in charge.
In the early part of the offseason, the Royals attempted to sign Nola. Rather, Nola made the decision to sign a minor league contract with the Milwaukee Brewers. KC was still partial to Nola. The Royals had another opportunity to acquire the seasoned backstop on Friday. The Brewers released Nola on Thursday, and Picollo was prepared to sign him. Nola signed with the Royals later that evening, so the transaction came together swiftly.
Picollo stated, “We were aware of it since it was rumoured that Milwaukee had signed (Gary) Sanchez.” We were aware that Nola was a non-roster invite, so we took precautions. Until it occurs, there isn’t really anything you can do. After his release yesterday, his representatives contacted other teams We had already decided to add him to the 40-man roster if that occurred and he was available.
In tandem, the Royals placed pitcher Kris Bubic on the 60-day injured list. Bubic is still recovering from surgery on his Tommy John. Nola was signed to a big league deal. Along with Freddy Fermin and Salvador Perez, the team captain, among others in camp, he adds depth. Additionally, Nola still has minor-league options available, giving the Royals roster flexibility. Fermin should not be affected by Nola’s signing, according to Picollo.
“I anticipate that Fermin will leave the team, but there’s a possibility we could part ways with three catchers,” Picollo remarked. Last season, Nola made 52 appearances. Despite having problems with his left eye’s vision, he managed to generate a batting average of.146. The condition resulted from symptoms he experienced following a concussion sustained during a spring training game the previous year. Regarding his persistent illnesses, Nola stated, “just dealing with the head stuff and, you know, getting the foul tips and from the first hit in spring training.” “I never truly bounced back from it.”