Kansas City Royals Sign Veteran Gold Glove Outfielder

The Kansas City Royals have signed outfielder Jackie Bradley Jr. to a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training.

We have signed OF Jackie Bradley Jr. to a minor league contract with an invitation to big league Spring Training.

— Kansas City Royals (@Royals) March 1, 2023

The move came as the team sought to bolster its outfield following a string of injuries. Outfielder Drew Waters will miss six weeks due to an oblique injury, while minor leaguers Brewer Hicklen and Diego Hernandez are also sidelined.

Bradley, a former All-Star and Gold Glover with ten years of MLB experience, struggled offensively in recent years. He batted just .203/.255/.311 over 131 games in the 2022 season, split between the Boston Red Sox and Toronto Blue Jays.

However, the 32-year-old outfielder remains highly regarded for his defensive abilities, which could prove valuable in the development of the Royals' young pitching staff. 

Jackie Bradley Jr. (4)

Opponent: Philadelphia Phillies
Pitcher: Brad Hand
Date: 9/20/22 pic.twitter.com/p1SMLWuq2G

— TOR Home Runs (@TOR__HR) February 25, 2023

Jackie Bradley Jr was nice with a glovepic.twitter.com/Ffi95JrKQQ

— Red (@SurvivingGrady) February 21, 2023

With MJ Melendez likely to spend the most time in left field and Kyle Isbel expected to start in center, Bradley will compete for a spot in the outfield mix.

Other candidates for playing time include Edward Olivares, Nate Eaton, Franmil Reyes, and Maikel Garcia, who could also see time in the outfield during spring training. 
Photo Credit: Gerry Angus-USA TODAY Sports