The Kansas City Royals’ journey through the 2024 season was one that fans hoped would be a turning point after enduring a tough 106-loss campaign. At the heart of their optimism were young stars like Bobby Witt Jr., who was expected to continue his impressive rise, and Vinnie Pasquantino, who was anticipated to make a strong return from injury.
Among the roster, which included players who shone briefly or struggled before finding their footing with the Royals, was reliever James McArthur. He wrapped up the 2023 season on a high note, giving fans a glimpse of stability they desperately needed. Acquired in a trade with the Philadelphia Phillies, McArthur showcased his potential by posting a remarkable 2.01 ERA and 2.05 FIP in the latter half of the season, making him the frontrunner for the closer role.
However, the 2024 season presented a different story for McArthur, affectionately dubbed “The General.” Despite appearing in 57 games and securing 18 saves for a playoff-bound team, his performance dipped to a 4.92 ERA and 4.17 FIP.
This decline, coupled with an eventual elbow injury, left fans disheartened. What began as minor discomfort escalated to a Grade 1 ulnar collateral ligament sprain, leading to offseason surgery involving screws in his elbow.
The 2025 season took an unexpected turn when McArthur was absent from spring training and missed the entire year due to persistent symptoms. While whispers circulated about his recovery, the true reason remained elusive until recently. In an intriguing revelation, McArthur disclosed that an allergic reaction to the metal screws necessitated their removal in July.
"I was super puffy," McArthur explained. "When they saw the image, they could see stuff in my elbow and they were like, ‘This isn’t normal.’ These guys are professionals and have seen thousands of cases."
Despite the rarity of such reactions, McArthur was among the few affected. The silver lining is his return to the mound this offseason, with the Royals taking a cautious approach to his rehabilitation, ensuring he’s ready to face hitters again.
As McArthur looks ahead to 2026, the pressure has shifted. Unlike 2024, where he was vying for the closer role, the focus is now on his health. The Royals boast a deep bullpen, led by Carlos Estévez and Lucas Erceg, along with a robust lineup of right-handed relievers like John Schreiber, Nick Mears, and Alex Lange, allowing McArthur the time he needs to recover fully.
Reflecting on his journey, McArthur remains determined. "Overall, it was a tough year and a lot of adversity," he shared.
"That’s kind of what this game’s about. So to me, it’s how can you bounce back the next day?
How can you bounce back the next season? And I’m feeling good now.
Headed into camp ready to get back out there and pitch."
With resilience and a renewed focus, McArthur is poised to make his mark once again, embodying the spirit of perseverance that defines the game.