Royals Sign Former Blue Jays All-Star to Free Agent Contract

Kansas City adds veteran pitcher Aaron Sanchez on a minor league deal with spring training invite.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 11:07am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Kansas City Royals have signed former Toronto Blue Jays All-Star pitcher Aaron Sanchez to a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training. Sanchez, 33, is looking to revive his career after struggling with injuries in recent seasons. He is coming off a strong performance in the Dominican Winter League, where he was named Pitcher of the Year.

Why it matters

The Royals have been active this offseason making under-the-radar moves as they look to rebuild their roster. Sanchez represents a low-risk, high-upside signing as the team tries to uncover hidden gems that can contribute at the major league level.

The details

Sanchez was originally drafted 34th overall by the Blue Jays in 2010 and made the All-Star team in 2016 when he went 15-2 with a 3.00 ERA. However, injuries have limited him in recent years, and his last MLB action came in 2022 when he split time between the Washington Nationals and Minnesota Twins. Sanchez pitched well in the Dominican Winter League, posting a 1.55 ERA with 34 strikeouts in 46.1 innings, earning him this opportunity with the Royals.

  • Sanchez last pitched in the majors in 2022.
  • He played in Triple-A for the Blue Jays' affiliate in 2024 but had a 7.92 ERA.
  • Sanchez did not pitch professionally at all in 2025 until his strong performance in the Dominican Winter League.

The players

Aaron Sanchez

A 33-year-old right-handed pitcher who was an All-Star with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2016.

Kansas City Royals

A Major League Baseball team based in Kansas City, Missouri that has been active this offseason making under-the-radar roster moves.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Sanchez will have the opportunity to earn a spot on the Royals' major league roster during spring training.

The takeaway

The Royals' signing of Aaron Sanchez represents a low-risk, high-upside move as the team looks to uncover hidden gems that can contribute at the major league level and help the team rebuild.