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The Kansas City Royals have made a strategic move in their offseason by re-signing pitcher Michael Lorenzen to a one-year deal worth $7 million. This contract includes $5.5 million for the 2025 season and a $1.5 million buyout on a $12 million mutual option for 2026, pending a physical. Lorenzen's return is significant as he demonstrated impressive performance during the 2024 season, posting a 1.57 ERA in 28 2/3 innings and a 3.31 ERA over 130 1/3 total innings, despite dealing with a left hamstring strain.

Lorenzen's presence in the rotation is crucial, especially following the trade of Brady Singer to the Reds, which brought in leadoff hitter Jonathan India. The Royals' rotation for Opening Day is shaping up to include Cole Ragans, Seth Lugo, Michael Wacha, and Lorenzen, with a fifth starter yet to be determined during Spring Training. The team is also actively seeking a middle-of-the-order bat to bolster their lineup for the upcoming season.

In other developments, the Houston Astros are gearing up for the 2025 season with a strong rotation led by Framber Valdez, who had a successful 2024 season with a 15-7 record and a 2.91 ERA. Hunter Brown, Ronel Blanco, and rookie Spencer Arrighetti are also key components of the Astros' pitching staff. The team has added Hayden Wesneski from the Cubs, who brings potential at 27 years old with a 3.93 ERA in his career. However, the Astros face challenges with injuries to Cristian Javier, Luis Garcia, Lance McCullers Jr., and J.P. France, all recovering from various surgeries.

Additionally, Baseball America has released its top 10 MLB center field prospects for 2025, featuring Roman Anthony of the Red Sox at the top, followed by Walker Jenkins and Emmanuel Rodriguez of the Twins, Max Clark of the Tigers, and Jaison Chourio of the Guardians. These rankings underscore the emerging young talent within the league, while the MLB Pipeline Poll has also highlighted key prospects and Rookie of the Year favorites for the upcoming season.

#Royals,#MichaelLorenzen,#MLB2025,#Astros,#BaseballProspects