The Kansas City Royals have been one of the busiest teams of the MLB offseason so far, and on Friday they added another key piece by acquiring veteran reliever Matt Strahm from the Philadelphia Phillies. Strahm arrives in Kansas City following another strong campaign in Philadelphia, where the 34-year-old left-hander posted a 2.74 ERA with 70 strikeouts across 62 1/3 innings.
Known for his ability to miss bats and handle high-leverage situations, Strahm has built a reputation as one of the league’s most reliable setup men. His versatility out of the bullpen gives the Royals a proven option who can bridge the gap to the ninth inning or step into closing duties if needed.
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This move also represents a homecoming of sorts, as Strahm made his MLB debut with the Royals back in 2016. He spent the first two seasons of his career in Kansas City before moving on to the San Diego Padres, Boston Red Sox and Philadelphia, steadily carving out a role as a dependable bullpen arm.
Regardless, it appears Strahm will be welcomed with open arms. One of the brightest young players in the Royals organization, Jac Caglianone, took to social media to celebrate the move. “Let’s go!!” he wrote on his Instagram story moments after the trade became official, signaling the excitement within the clubhouse.
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Caglianone has not been with Kansas City long, having been drafted sixth overall in the 2024 MLB Draft. His rise through the system was rapid as he dominated the minor leagues before making his big-league debut in 2025.
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While his first taste of the big leagues came with growing pains, hitting just .157 with a .237 on-base percentage, a .532 OPS, seven home runs and 18 RBIs across 62 games, the 22-year-old remains one of the organization’s most promising young talents. His raw power and athleticism give him the tools to become a fixture in the lineup, and the Royals are confident he will take another step forward with more consistent opportunities next season.
Beyond his talent, Caglianone has already shown how passionate he is about being a Royal, embracing the culture and connecting with teammates. He also benefits from playing alongside shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., who has emerged as the face of the franchise and serves as an invaluable mentor.
With Strahm returning to where his career began and Caglianone eager to grow alongside established veterans, the Royals are blending experience with youthful energy in a way that could define their next chapter.