Royals near agreement to sign veteran pitcher Kip Wells

By BOB DUTTON

The Kansas City Star

More Royals coverage

More News

CLEVELAND | The Royals reached an agreement in principle Monday with veteran free-agent pitcher Kip Wells in a move designed primarily to bolster a beat-up bullpen.

Wells, 31, was designated for assignment last week by the Colorado Rockies after going 1-2 with a 5.27 ERA in 15 appearances. He missed 10 weeks earlier this season because of a blot-clot injury in his right hand.

Barring a last-minute snag, Wells could join the Royals as soon as tonight’s series opener against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. He is 65-93 with a 4.64 ERA in 246 games with five teams in a 10-year career.

Wells is already receiving $3.1 million this season in guaranteed salary from the Rockies. His tentative deal with the Royals is for a pro-rated share of the major-league minimum or about $90,000.

The Royals find themselves shorthanded in the bullpen because of several injuries.

The availability of lefty Ron Mahay remains uncertain after pain returned to his left foot following a brief appearance Saturday against the Yankees. Right-hander Ramon Ramirez is also believed to be battling an unspecified minor injury.

Wells pitched primarily as a starter until this season. As such, he could also serve a possible replacement for any of the club’s struggling starting pitchers.

Posted on Mon, Aug. 18, 2008 08:57 PM

Buzz Up

Comment (0)

Join the discussion

Share your observations and experiences about news. Lively, open, civil debate is the goal. Please refrain from personal attacks or comments that are racist, vulgar or otherwise inappropriate. If you see an inappropriate comment, please click the "Report as abuse" link.