Royals Sign Luke Jackson and Génesis Cabrera to Minor League Deals

The Kansas City Royals have added depth to their pitching staff by signing right-handed reliever Luke Jackson and left-handed hurler Génesis Cabrera to minor league contracts. Jackson, who recently opted out of a deal with the New York Mets, brings big league experience and a history of high-leverage success. Meanwhile, Cabrera, released by the Philadelphia Phillies last week, offers left-handed velocity and potential after a rough stretch in Triple-A.

Luke Jackson, 34, signed with the Mets in early April after missing spring training but made just three appearances in Single-A before moving up to Triple-A. He struggled in that higher level, allowing six earned runs in 4 2/3 innings before deciding to opt out. Despite the recent underperformance, Jackson’s career resume includes a 4.22 ERA over 409 1/3 innings, with standout postseason work in 2021 when he helped the Atlanta Braves win the World Series. His 2025 season saw a 4.06 ERA, although his strikeout and walk rates remain below ideal levels.

Génesis Cabrera, 29, comes to the Royals after allowing 20 earned runs in 17 1/3 innings with the Phillies’ Triple-A affiliate. The lefty has shown flashes of dominance with upper-90s velocity and a career strikeout rate of 21.9% in 318 1/3 major league innings. However, his command has been inconsistent, as evidenced by a 11.1% walk rate and fluctuating strikeout percentages in recent seasons.

The Royals are in need of fresh arms in their bullpen, which ranks in the bottom third of the league with a 4.51 ERA. Carlos Estévez, Matt Strahm, and James McArthur are all currently on the injured list, while starters Cole Ragans and Kris Bubic have also been sidelined. With long relievers like Bailey Falter and Luinder Avila potentially needing to take on more innings, the addition of Jackson and Cabrera could provide a much-needed boost.

Both players are expected to report to Triple-A Omaha, where they can continue to prove their value before being called upon if needed. The Royals have not announced any official deadline for a potential promotion, but a decision could come as early as the next week.

Photo courtesy of John Froschauer, Imagn Images