The Los Angeles Angels' list of free agent reliever targets shrank by one Sunday, when left-hander Will Smith reportedly agreed to terms with the Kansas City Royals. The deal is for one year and $5 million according to ESPN's Jeff Passan, who broke the news.
The Angels had previously been linked with Smith as a potential bullpen option. He was a durable option for the Texas Rangers last season, making 60 regular season appearances and another five in the postseason, eventually culminating in his third World Series title in three years.
Smith posted an ERA of 4.40 and a WHIP of 1.06 with Texas last year. He struck out 55 batters in 57.1 innings of work.
The 34-year-old veteran was one of the most highly coveted relievers on the market. Smith has finished the last three seasons with the Atlanta Braves, Houston Astros, and Rangers, respectively – all champions.
It's unlikely the Royals will win the World Series next season, but Smith could become a prime candidate to be traded at the deadline. Teams are always looking to bolster their bullpen at the deadline, and Smith could bring back a nice return to Kansas City.
A possible target for an Angels bullpen that struggled mightily in 2023, Smith was originally drafted by Anaheim in 2008 and traded two years later for Alberto Callaspo – coincidentally, to the Royals.
The Halos will now need to look elsewhere to continue building their bullpen out.
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