Royals, Young working toward reunion
Versatile right-hander a key part of club's championship
KANSAS CITY -- The Royals and right-hander Chris Young have had encouraging talks about the possibility of bringing him back for the 2016 season and possibly beyond, according to those familiar with the situation.
Young, 36, indicated shortly after the World Series that he was extremely fond of the organization and desired a return. Royals general manager Dayton Moore also has indicated the club is open to his return.
"We're hoping perhaps something can get done," Moore said. "You can make the case that Chris was the MVP of our pitching staff. He performed many roles for us and performed at a high level.
"He is a high-character guy and a very competitive player. He is always well prepared and gives everything he has."
The Royals certainly are looking for help in the rotation. The starters right now for 2016 would be Edinson Volquez, Yordano Ventura, Danny Duffy and likely Kris Medlen.
Young started the season in the bullpen and then moved into the rotation in May. He stayed in the rotation until the end of July, moved back to the bullpen, then made two starts at the end of the regular season. One of those final starts came on the day he learned his father had passed away -- he threw five no-hit innings against the Indians in a 3-0 win.
In the regular season, Young went 11-6 with a 3.06 ERA.
Young also was a huge factor in the postseason: In four appearances he posted a 2.87 ERA. He started Game 4 of the American League Championship Series at Toronto and delivered 4 2/3 innings of two-run ball in a 14-2 win.
Young pitched three innings of no-hit, shutout relief and got the win in the Royals' 5-4 triumph in extra innings over the Mets in Game 1 of the World Series. He then started Game 4 of the World Series and gave up just two runs over four innings in a 5-3 win.
Young signed last spring with the Royals for a one-year deal with a base salary of $675,000. But he met numerous incentives that bumped his total earnings to $4,325,000, according to a source.