The Kansas City Royals added a familiar arm to the organization Thursday, signing right-hander Scott Barlow to a minor league contract ahead of their series opener against the Tampa Bay Rays. The veteran reliever is expected to report to Triple-A Omaha.
Barlow, 33, spent parts of six seasons with Kansas City after signing with the organization before the 2018 season. He became one of the club's top late-inning relievers during his first stint.
His best season came in 2022 when he posted a 2.18 ERA with 24 saves in 69 appearances. Across six seasons with the Royals, Barlow went 20-16 with a 3.39 ERA and 56 saves.
Kansas City traded Barlow to the San Diego Padres at the 2023 trade deadline for pitching prospects Henry Williams and Jesús Rios. He later spent time with the Cleveland Guardians, Cincinnati Reds and Athletics.
Barlow appeared in 36 games for the Athletics this season, posting a 6.48 ERA with two saves, 29 strikeouts and a 1.35 WHIP. Oakland designated him for assignment on June 21 before releasing him three days later.
The reunion gives the Royals another experienced bullpen option after injuries to Carlos Estévez, James McArthur and Nick Mears depleted the relief corps. Because the deal is a minor league contract, Barlow will have the opportunity to earn another promotion if he performs well at Omaha.
A sixth-round pick by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 2011 MLB Draft, Barlow owns a 3.79 career ERA with 61 saves across 476 major league appearances. His familiarity with the organization gives Kansas City experienced depth as the season continues.
The Royals entered Thursday with a 35-52 record, last in the American League Central, before opening a series against the Rays. If Barlow rediscovers his previous form, he could become another option for the major league bullpen later this season.
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