According to someone familiar with the deal, Kris Bryant, a veteran slugger, has agreed to a $182million, seven-year contract to join Colorado Rockies.
The person who confirmed the deal to The Associated Press Wednesday under condition of anonymity because it is awaiting a successful physical.
Bryant will be joining his third team within eight months, having spent his first six major-league seasons with the Chicago Cubs. He was traded to San Francisco in July.
He was the 2016 NL MVP and World Series Champion. Bryant hit a combined.265 last season with 25 homers, 73 RBIs, and eight hits in the Giants’ five game playoff loss to Los Angeles Dodgers. Bryant was able to earn his fourth All-Star selection in his career despite a slump midseason that led to the trade. Bryant also received his third career All-Star selection after a solid rebound from a difficult year at the plate in 2020.
The Rockies liked Bryant’s vision: Bryant signed a massive free-agent contract to move to Colorado as a middle of the order bat and fielder. This is Bryant’s most likely position with Colorado, who also have Ryan McMahon at third base and C.J. Cron is at first. Bryant is also a candidate to join Charlie Blackmon as designated hitters for the Rockies.
Bryant is a career.278 hitter with 163 homers. 487 RBIs. An.880 OPS. But Bryant will soon enjoy the full benefits of playing at Coors Field. He has a career record of.263 (15-for-57) with two homers. Nine RBIs. A.757 OPS.
The 2015 NL Rookie of the year’s right-handed swing will counter the Rockies’ left-handed slant in the outfield lineup. They haven’t won a playoff match since 2009.
The signing shows that Colorado wants to remain competitive in the NL West despite the roster turmoil of the past year, which included the trade of Nolan Arenado last year and the imminent departure of Trevor Story.
On Wednesday, the Rockies signed Jose Iglesias, a free agent shortstop, to a one year deal. This is apparently a sign that Story’s successful tenure with the team is over. Two-time All-Star, Iglesias hit 158 home runs for Colorado.
Iglesias slugged.271 last season with the Los Angeles Angels. He also had nine homers, 27 doubles, and 48 RBIs. After being a top shortstop in the majors, Iglesias was a regular in Anaheim. He made a record 16 errors in his last season, which is a surprise considering his previous seasons.
“In 2012 he was one of the most fun and flashiest guys to watch in the field,” Daniel Bard, Rockies right-hander, said. Bard played in Boston with Iglesias. It was like, “Oh, my god, if he can just put it all together, he is Omar Vizquel.” He is also full of energy. He has built a great career. Since the moment I met him, I have been impressed by him.
The Rockies also signed a one year contract with Chad Kuhl (longtime Pittsburgh right-hander), who is now considered a top candidate for the position in the starting rotation that was vacant when Jon Gray signed a $46 million, four-year deal with Texas.
“I believe in myself,” Kuhl said. Kuhl stated, “I am committed to being a starter but I’ve always considered myself a team guy.” It has always been my nature and instinct to win. I will do whatever I can to help. However, I believe it is going to be to begin. As a starter, I feel I can add value.”
Kuhl was 5-7 last season with a 4.82 ERA. He made 14 starts and 14 relief appearances. After Tommy John ligament replacement surgery in the late 2018 and missed the 2019 season, Kuhl is now 25-30 in five major league seasons.
