Height
6'4"
Weight
190 lbs
Age
28
College
N/A
Draft
2016, Rd 1, #30
Experience
4 yrs
Bats/Throws
L/L
Fan Verdict
Grade this player:
Career StatsA
| Year | Team | GP | ERA | W-L | K | WHIP | IP | SV |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career |  | 84 | 3.7113402 | 21-21 | 466 | 1.201031 | 0.0 | 0 |
Current Contract
Length
3 years
Total Value
$13.3M
Guaranteed
$8.0M
AAV
$4.4M/yr
Contract Value Index (CVI)
Cole Ragans earns a solid C+ CVI on his three-year, $4.4M AAV deal, representing fair value for a starter who's delivering A-level performance in his fourth year. The 28-year-old left-hander has emerged as a franchise-caliber arm despite flying under the radar in Kansas City's small market, significantly outproducing the modest salary that reflects his pre-breakout market value. At $4.4M annually, Ragans provides exceptional rotation value compared to typical mid-rotation starter salaries, especially considering his elite on-field production that hasn't yet translated into widespread recognition. The three-year term offers Kansas City cost certainty through his prime years while avoiding the long-term risk that often accompanies starting pitcher extensions. Media coverage remains measured but positive, with analysts respecting his professional approach and steady contributions even as early-season struggles reflected broader team challenges rather than individual concerns. This contract positions the Royals to benefit significantly if Ragans maintains his current production level, making it a shrewd investment in a proven starter entering his peak years.
Performance Analysis
Cole Ragans grades as a near-elite performer among MLB starting pitchers, earning a A- Performance grade. He carries a 3.66 ERA (near the league average of 4.20) and a 1.19 WHIP across 384.0 innings pitched with a 10.8 K/9 rate. His 21-20 record provides context on team support and run prevention. His strikeout rate of 10.8 per nine innings ranks among the best in the league, showing dominant swing-and-miss ability. As a player entering his prime window at 28, Cole is a key contributor for the Royals.
Recent Games
| Date | OPP | Result | AB | H | R | HR | RBI | BB | SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wed, 4/8 | @ CLE | L 2-10 | - | - | - | 0 | - | - | - |
| Thu, 4/2 | vs MIN | L 1-5 | - | - | - | 0 | - | - | - |
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