Royals sign Cole Ragans to three-year, $13.25 million deal

The Kansas City Royals have signed left-handed pitcher Cole Ragans to a three-year contract extension worth $13.25 million, rewarding his breakout season in 2024 where he was named an All-Star. Ragans, who recorded a 3.14 ERA and 223 strikeouts over 186.1 innings last season, will earn escalating salaries of $1.25 million this year, $4.5 million in 2026, and $7.5 million in 2027, with a potential increase to $8 million if he wins the Cy Young Award in either of the next two seasons. General Manager J.J. Picollo praised Ragans for his hard work and professionalism, noting his pivotal role as the ace of the Royals’ pitching staff. The extension reflects the team's confidence in Ragans’ ability to perform despite his history of Tommy John surgeries. This contract also signifies the Royals' commitment to building a competitive team around young talent, following their recent extension with Bobby Witt Jr. Sources report that Ragans' success is seen as a motivating factor for the organization moving forward.