SURPRISE, Ariz. -- Royals general manager Dayton Moore took another step toward refurbishing the Kansas City bullpen Saturday, agreeing to a two-year contract with right-hander Juan Cruz that includes an option for 2011.
Cruz was 4-0 with a 2.61 ERA in 57 relief appearances last season with the Arizona Diamondbacks. He struck out 71 in 51 2/3 innings, while allowing 34 hits and walking 31. He averaged 12.37 strikeouts per nine innings, which topped National League relievers.
Cruz will get $2.25 million this season and $3.25 million in 2010. There is a club option of $4 million for 2011 with a $500,000 buyout.
Cruz would be used as a setup for All-Star closer Joakim Soria, who had 42 saves last year.
"Juan Cruz gives us more options and potentially better options as we try to transition into the ninth to get to Joakim," Moore said. "You've got to be able to strike people out in our league. We feel like we have obviously a very good closer in Joakim. We've got to make sure we get to him."
Cruz, who is on the Dominican Republic roster for the World Baseball Classic, said he hasn't decided whether he to play in the WBC.
"I don't think I'm going to go there," said Cruz, who reported to the Royals on Saturday. "I'm not ready to go. I'm excited to be here and meet all the guys."
Cruz said he has been throwing and working out, but "doing it by myself is kind of different."
The 30-year-old Cruz made his debut with the Chicago Cubs in 2001. He has also pitched for the Atlanta Braves and Oakland Athletics, compiling a 29-31 record with a 4.00 ERA in 297 outings, including 38 starts.
"He's a power pitcher, a great competitor," Moore said. "Only Brad Lidge had more swings and misses last year among all pitchers than Cruz. He's very effective against left-handers and right-handers."
To make room for Cruz on the 40-man roster, the Royals designated for assignment utility player Esteban German, who hit .245 in 89 games last season.
"German is such a pro," Moore said. "He'll land on his feet and in a good situation."
Since Cruz was classified a Type-A free agent, the Royals will forfeit their second-round pick in the June draft to the Diamondbacks.
back2d3f3nc3 
