Ian Kennedy

Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports the Rangers are signing RHP Ian Kennedy to a minor league contract.

Fantasy Impact

The deal includes an invitation to spring training. Kennedy struggled with the Royals last season but has some recent closing experience and should wind up providing depth for Texas' bullpen.

Ian Kennedy, who was placed on the IL on August 31st, received an MRI that showed a Grade 2 calf strain. Royals medical staff anticipates at least a three-week recovery per beat writer Jeffrey Flanagan.

Fantasy Impact

With just a little under a month of the regular season left it's highly doubtful that Kennedy will recover in time to pitch. He can be safely dropped in all fantasy leagues. Jesse Hahn has looked great in a setup role for the Royals and picked up his first save a few days ago. It will be Greg Holland and Hahn going forward in the eighth and ninth innings.

The Royals placed RHP Ian Kennedy on the 10-day injured list with a calf strain.

Fantasy Impact

Kennedy suffered the injury during his appearance on Sunday. The team recalled Chance Adams in a corresponding move.

Ian Kennedy hurt his calf in ninth inning of the Royals game against the White Sox on Saturday. Manager Mike Matheny said a trip to the IL is a possibility.

Fantasy Impact

Kennedy is in the mix for saves in Kansas City now that Trevor Rosenthal is headed to San Diego. However, he has a 9.00 ERA in 14 innings pitched this season. Fantasy owners in standard 12-team redraft leagues can leave Kennedy on the Waiver Wire for now but he is worth monitoring in case he claims the closers' role in Kansas City.

Ian Kennedy is serving as Kansas City's opener on Friday against the Twins.

Fantasy Impact

So much for our preseason expectations that Kennedy was the team's locked-in closer. Jakob Junis had been scheduled to start tonight but will instead be the Royals' bulk pitcher.