Here’s a bold move that could reshape the Royals’ bullpen: the team has inked 29-year-old right-handed reliever Eli Morgan to a minor league deal, a decision that’s as intriguing as it is strategic. But here’s where it gets controversial: Morgan’s recent injury history might make some fans skeptical, yet his 2024 performance with Cleveland—a stellar 1.93 ERA in 32 games—suggests he could be a hidden gem. So, is this a low-risk, high-reward move or a gamble that could backfire? Let’s dive in.
Morgan’s journey to the Royals hasn’t been without its twists and turns. Originally an eighth-round pick by Cleveland out of Gonzaga in 2017, he made his MLB debut in 2021 as a starter, posting a 5.34 ERA in 18 starts. And this is the part most people miss: it was his transition to the bullpen in 2022 that unlocked his potential. That year, he thrived as a reliever with the Guardians, delivering a 3.38 ERA, 72 strikeouts, and just 13 walks in 66.2 innings. His 2022 campaign also marked his best strikeout season, with 75 Ks and a 10.0 per-nine-inning rate. Even in 2024, despite being limited to 42 innings due to elbow inflammation, he posted a career-best 1.1 rWAR.
However, elbow issues have been a recurring theme in Morgan’s career. After a rough start in 2023, he landed on the Injured List in April with an inflamed ulnar nerve in his right elbow. A setback during rehab delayed his return, and though he was expected back in September, the Cubs instead optioned him to the minors, where he finished the season. The Cubs ultimately non-tendered him rather than paying him around $1 million, leaving him a free agent.
On the mound, Morgan relies on a 92 mph four-seam fastball, paired with a slider and changeup. Here’s a fascinating detail: last season, despite limited appearances, he increased his changeup usage to 41 percent, showcasing adaptability in his pitch mix. Could this be a sign of untapped potential?
The Royals’ recent bullpen moves—adding veterans Héctor Neris and Aaron Sanchez alongside Morgan—signal a clear strategy: bolstering depth without breaking the bank. These minor league deals are low-risk investments, providing arms for spring training and potentially AAA Omaha. But the real question is: Do these veterans still have enough in the tank to contribute at the major league level? Or are they simply stopgaps?
This approach isn’t without its critics. Some argue that relying on injury-prone or aging relievers is a risky bet, while others see it as a smart way to uncover undervalued talent. What do you think? Is the Royals’ bullpen strategy a masterstroke or a misstep? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over.
