Brayan Pena signs one year contract with Kansas City Royals – MLB News
The veteran catcher, Brayan Pena has agreed to a one year $865,000 deal with the Kansas City Royals. Pena had been staying in Miami when he learnt that he will have opportunity to play full time for the club, he always wanted to be with. After three years of part time employment with the Royals, the back-up catcher will finally have the chance to compete for a spot on Kansas’ regular roster.
Pena was absolutely delighted after he signed the deal with his favourite club.
“I think everybody wants to play,” Pena said. “But I’m very happy with my position right now. … I really don’t pay too much attention to whether I’m playing or not. It’s a long season. But meanwhile, I’m gonna be there for Salvy and the pitching staff.”
The Royals, on the other hand, have spent very wisely on their players for this upcoming season. The team management certainly knows what they are doing. Alex Gordon, who has produced match winning performances for the Royals, turned down a $4.15 million offer after the club refused his $5.5 million request.
At the age of 30, Pena still has a lot to offer the Royals. He will be looking to make the most of his opportunities in the spring training season to become a permanent part of Kansas’ roster. The past season proved to be a disastrous one for Pena as he posted a poor .248 batting average.
“I call him my ‘dad’. It was an early decision and we didn’t have to go through any process or anything,” Pena said, before repeating an upbeat mantra he’s voiced since last winter. “I wish I can be with the Royals until I retire.”
Pena is likely to compete for the back-up catching position after Salvador Perez was signed on the Royals for starting catcher duties. The 2012 season provides Pena with an excellent opportunity to prove his metal. Over the years, he has been criticised for his lack of consistency. He will be looking to shut the critics and change the course of his career.
Tags: