Kansas City Royals Place 8-Year Veteran On Waivers

The Kansas City Royals have decided to designate right-handed pitcher Mike Mayers for assignment.

Mayers, who joined the team on a minor league deal this offseason, had a strong start to the season but has recently struggled, resulting in a disappointing 6.15 ERA over 26.2 innings.

The Royals have DFA’d Mike Mayers pic.twitter.com/vZO6frZgZi
— Royals Daily (@RoyalsDaily_) June 18, 2023

Following his performance against the Los Angeles Angels where he allowed six runs in five innings, he was taken off both the 40-man and 26-man active rosters.

Despite his recent struggles, there may still be some interest in Mayers on waivers due to his past success.

He had a breakout year with the Angels in 2020-2021 before experiencing difficulties in 2022. The 31-year-old righty is currently viewed as organizational depth rather than a key contributor, and if he clears waivers, he is expected to return to Triple-A Omaha, providing additional pitching depth for the Royals.

The Kansas City Royals designated RHP Mike Mayers for assignment. pic.twitter.com/Cb3duFGoI8
— Complete MLB (@CompleteMLB) June 19, 2023

For Mayers to pitch in the majors again, he would need to be added back to the 40-man roster.

However, his current performance suggests that he may need to regain consistency and make adjustments to regain his previous form. Whether he becomes a free agent or accepts an outright assignment to Triple-A will depend on the outcome of the waiver process and Mayers' own decision.

Over his eight-year career, the 31-year-old holds a 5.21 ERA, 1.42 WHIP, while averaging 9.1 K/9 across 262.2 innings and 204 appearances. Photo Credit: Reggie Hildred-USA TODAY Sports