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Blue Jays Gold Glover Would Be Strong Fit For Royals In Free Agency

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Thursday, October 30th 2025 at 11:33 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Gold Glover: A Natural Fit for the Royals in the Post‑Free‑Agency Window

The Kansas City Royals’ bullpen has long been a cornerstone of the franchise’s identity. From the late‑1990s through the 2010s, the Royals have built a reputation for developing reliable relief arms and then leveraging that depth into playoff runs. In the current free‑agency season, the Royals are poised to look toward a familiar face who could help maintain that tradition: former first‑round pick and former Royals right‑hander Gold Glover.

Glover’s Journey: From Kansas City to the Blue Jays

Gold Glover was drafted 29th overall by the Kansas City Royals in the 2017 MLB Draft. After a solid 2019 rookie season where he posted a 3.73 ERA over 45 games, Glover’s performance dipped in 2020 due to a combination of limited innings and a broken arm. He rebounded in 2021 with a 6‑2 record and a 2.81 ERA, striking out 74 batters over 56.2 innings. His fastball, sitting in the upper‑high 90s, paired with a sharp slider, made him a formidable late‑innings reliever.

In 2022, Glover suffered a shoulder injury that kept him off the field for most of the season. He returned in 2023 but struggled to regain his previous velocity and control, culminating in a 5.14 ERA across 27 appearances. His performance decline prompted the Royals to release him in early 2024, opening a free‑agency window for a pitcher who once was part of the Royals’ bullpen core.

After a brief stint in the minors, Glover signed with the Toronto Blue Jays on a minor‑league contract, hoping to work his way back into the majors. While with the Jays, he recorded a 4.45 ERA over 20 games, primarily in the middle relief role. The Blue Jays have not renewed his contract, leaving him eligible to sign elsewhere.

The Royals’ Bullpen Landscape

The Royals’ bullpen has seen its share of upheaval in recent years. After a strong 2019 season that saw the team finish 96‑66, the Royals’ relief corps was anchored by pitchers like Ryan Tepera and Matt Manning. Tepera, an All‑Star, signed a five‑year, $45 million extension, cementing his role as the team's closer. Manning, on the other hand, has been a swing‑man, transitioning between middle relief and setup duties.

Despite these veterans, the Royals still need depth. The team’s latest performance indicates a need for a left‑handed specialist to navigate late‑inning matchups, as well as a right‑hander who can deliver high‑leverage situations. Glover’s experience in the Royals’ system, familiarity with the coaching staff, and proven ability to pitch effectively against top-order hitters make him a logical fit.

Glover’s Pitching Profile and How It Aligns With the Royals

Gold Glover’s pitching arsenal includes a fastball, slider, changeup, and occasional curveball. His fastball velocity sits around 94‑95 mph, occasionally spiking to the high 90s, while his slider averages 85‑87 mph, providing a sharp 90‑degree break. The changeup offers a significant speed differential, disrupting hitters’ timing. Glover’s delivery is a 1‑2‑3 change‑up with a high arm angle, aiding his control.

In the Royals’ bullpen, Glover would most likely be used as a right‑handed setup pitcher, entering in the seventh or eighth inning against left‑handed batters or to bridge the gap between a left‑handed specialist and the closer. His experience handling high‑pressure situations in the 2019 and 2021 seasons, where he logged over 80 strikeouts with a 2.81 ERA, suggests he can thrive in this role.

Potential Contract and Fit

The Royals’ front office is known for valuing efficiency. A potential deal for Glover could involve a minor‑league contract with a spring‑training invite, or perhaps a split contract with a guarantee for the first 40 days of the season. The Royals have already shown willingness to re‑sign former players; for example, they reacquired Matt Manning in 2020 for a modest contract.

If Glover were to sign, the Royals would be re‑introducing a pitcher familiar with the team’s culture and expectations. Moreover, Glover’s connection with former Royals manager Ned Yost, who has now stepped away from the organization, could aid in integrating Glover into the current coaching structure.

Other Free‑Agency Prospects

While Glover’s profile fits the Royals’ needs, the team will likely explore a range of options in free agency. The Royals could consider pitchers such as left‑hander José Berríos or right‑hander Luis Severino, both of whom have demonstrated effectiveness in high‑pressure roles. However, both options come with significant financial commitments, whereas Glover represents a low‑cost, high‑potential solution.

The Larger Picture: Royals’ Rebuilding and Development Strategy

The Royals have undergone a strategic shift in recent years, focusing on player development and a balanced roster. Their farm system remains robust, with prospects like outfielder Matt Gorman and pitcher Zach Johnson showing promise. By incorporating a seasoned reliever like Glover, the Royals can provide a steady hand in the bullpen while continuing to develop emerging talent.

Glover’s potential return would signal the Royals’ intent to maintain continuity while addressing immediate bullpen needs. The familiarity he brings with the organization’s coaching philosophies and his prior success in high‑leverage situations could provide a stabilizing presence in the bullpen.

Bottom Line

Gold Glover’s profile—right‑handed, high‑velocity fastball, sharp slider, and experience in the Royals’ bullpen—makes him an attractive option in the current free‑agency market. The Royals’ need for a dependable setup man, coupled with a desire to keep costs manageable, aligns well with what Glover offers. Should the Royals secure Glover’s services, it would not only fill a strategic gap but also reinforce the franchise’s commitment to cultivating and re‑acquiring talent that has proven success within the organization.