Kansas City Royals trade reliever Taylor Clarke to Milwaukee Brewers; here’s the return
The Kansas City Royals remained active in the offseason trade market Thursday, sending relief pitcher Taylor Clarke to the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for prospects.
Clarke, 30, posted a 5.95 ERA in 58 appearances last season. He allowed 39 earned runs and struck out 65 batters in 59 innings.
The Royals acquired minor-league pitcher Ryan Brady and infielder Cam DeVanney in the trade.
Brady, 24, made 37 appearances across multiple levels. He had a 2.69 ERA and 72 strikeouts during the 2023 campaign. DeVanney, 26, spent time with Triple-A Nashville last season. He hit .271 with 27 doubles, 11 home runs and 47 RBIs.
DeVanney offers some positional versatility: He has played first base, second base, third base and shortstop.
The Royals adjusted their 40-man roster accordingly after also signing veteran starting pitcher Seth Lugo to a two-year deal this week. Lugo’s contract — worth a reported $45 million — includes a player option for the 2026 season.
The Royals were reportedly adding reliever Chris Stratton via a free-agent deal. However, the team had not officially announced the signing as of mid-afternoon Thursday.
As for filling Clarke’s role in the bullpen, the Royals have options after recently signing closer Will Smith to a one-year deal. They’ve also acquired reliever Nick Anderson from the Atlanta Braves and selected pitcher Matt Sauer in the Rule 5 Draft.
The Royals finished 56-106 last season. General manager J.J. Picollo has since prioritized adding some experienced veterans and building a better overall roster for 2024.
The Royals’ other signings so far this offseason include utilityman Garrett Hampson and starting pitcher Kyle Wright.
Picollo plans to remain in the market. He has said he would like to add another starter, additional bullpen help and an impact bat.
This story was originally published December 14, 2023 at 4:23 PM with the headline "Kansas City Royals trade reliever Taylor Clarke to Milwaukee Brewers; here’s the return."
