Royals still interested in Jamey Wright as pen filler

Kansas City Royals vs Detroit Tigers.The Kansas City Royals are interested in bringing back journeyman reliever Jamey Wright for the 2010 season according to Bob Dutton of the Kansas City Star. Wright was 3-5 with a 4.33 ERA and 1.48 WHIP in 65 relief appearances with Kansas City in 2009 after joining the club as a non-roster invitee.

Wright who has never had dominating stuff on the mound has been helped out by his ability to induce ground balls. Last season he recorded a 59.1% ground-ball rate.

As far as middle relievers who can operate as swing men in a pinch, Wright is about as effective as any on the open market. Should he not return to Kansas City his laid back attitude and recent success as an early relief option make him an attractive option for a number of teams looking for arms at low cost this winter.

Over a 14 year career he has pitched at the big league level for six different organizations. Since 2003 he has joined Kansas City, Colorado (2004, 2005), San Fransisco (2006), Texas (2007, 2008) and Kandas City (2009) all on one year deals. In the majority of those situations he had to earn a roster spot out of spring training.

His best season during that span came in 2007 while with Texas. Wright initally won the fifth starters role for the club but was later moved to the bullpen. He finished that season 4-5 with a 3.62 ERA and a 1.47 WHIP.

Of the 420 career games Wright has pitched in 246 have been as a starter. His last start came in 2007.

Wright certainly won’t demand a large amount on the open market but may accept a contract guaranteeing a roster spot. It’s unclear how the Royals plan to fill out their bullpen.

John Boarman
John Boarmanhttp://www.tireball.com
Founder and Owner of Tireball Sports.

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