Will Smith Returns to the Royals on a One-year deal

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According to multiple reports, veteran reliever Will Smith has agreed to a one-year $5 million contract. The deal is pending a physical, but if cleared, Smith will join the team that he made his debut with back in 2012.

Smith is going into his 12th season in the big leagues. The former all-star has won three consecutive World Series titles: Atlanta Braves (2021), Houston Astros (2022), and most recently, Texas Rangers (2023). Royals hope Smith will continue that streak in 2024, but it will be unlikely as the Royals are still likely to be one of the worst teams heading into 2024. 

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The Royals needed to bolster the bullpen as they struggled mightily in 2023, having a team ERA of 5.32. Smith will bring a veteran presence as well as a history of success. The 34-year-old lefty had 22 saves with the Rangers in 2023 and will most likely be considered the closer at the start of the year. Smith had a 4.40 ERA last season but threw in 60 games last year, showing his ability to be available when needed. Since 2021, Smith has played in 60 or more games in all three years. 

As Smith is a veteran lefty who has proven durable and consistent, the Royals showed their willingness to try and compete in an incredibly weak AL Central. The Royals must address many issues heading into 2024, but managing the bullpen is a good start. Even if the Royals are still determining where they would like to go, they could do what they did with Chapman this past season and ship him to a contender for some prospects in return.