The Kansas City Royals have been linked to a number of star position players in trade rumors. Kansas City's starting rotation has uncertainty, though. While Cole Ragans' return will help matters, bringing in a veteran starter should be an option for Kansas City. Chris Bassitt is a pitcher the Royals need to consider signing in free agency before spring training. 

Bassitt, 36, offers impressive veteran prowess. Even if he were to struggle, the right-handed hurler could help some of the team's younger pitchers develop. However, he still has something left in the tank from a performance standpoint as well.

Bassitt has pitched in at least 27 games in each season since 2021. In 2025 with the Toronto Blue Jays, he recorded a 3.96 ERA across 170.1 innings on the mound. It was a strong campaign for the veteran, who played a role in helping the Blue Jays win the American League. Although Toronto fell short in the World Series, Bassitt's performance was crucial in the team's run to the Fall Classic.

Bassitt is likely receiving some attention already in free agency. He projects to be a quality fit for many teams. Contenders would benefit from his performance as a mid-rotation starter, while rebuilding squads would love to sign a veteran leader who could be moved at the trade deadline for prospects. 

The Royals seemingly want to win this year. Signing him would be a win-now move. If Kansas City falls short of expectations, however, then Bassitt could be traded in July. 

Kansas City's rotation needs extra arms. Ragans is currently set to be joined by Michael Wacha, Kris Bubic and Seth Lugo. A number of other candidates will compete for the fifth rotation spot -- unless another starter is added. 

Whether it ends up being Chris Bassitt or not, signing one more starting pitcher makes sense for the Royals. It seems unlikely that any of the star pitchers remaining in free agency will be realistic candidates for Kansas City. As a result, a cheaper yet reliable veteran like Bassitt would be a strong fit. 

It will be intriguing to see if the Royals end up being connected to the 36-year-old. There have not been any rumors linking the player and team thus far, but spring training is still a few weeks away. There is time for the Royals to pursue Bassitt in free agency.