The Royals had a bad bullpen - although better than the National League pennant-winning Washington Nationals by most metrics. Still, a 5.07 bullpen ERA and 23 blown saves left much room for improvement. The Royals may be hesitant to jump back into free agency after last year’s free agent relievers - Brad Boxberger and Wily Peralta - were largely disasters. But Jake Diekman performed adequately, and there are many others out there who may prove to be much more worthwhile. Let’s look at this year’s free agent relief pitcher market.
Top of the Shelf Relievers
Aroldis Chapman is almost certainly going to opt out of the two years and $30 million remaining on his deal and will be the most coveted reliever on the market.