Royals sign free-agent pitcher Kris Medlen to 2-year deal

The Kansas City Royals are hoping a clean bill of health helps Kris Medlen regain the form that once made him of the top young arms in baseball.

Medlen and the Royals agreed to a two-year deal Thursday that will reportedly pay the right-hander a guaranteed $8.5 million - $2 million next season and $5.5 million in 2016.

Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reported the contract includes a mutual $10-million option for 2017 with a $1-million buyout if either party declines. Medlen's deal reportedly contains several incentives, including additional bonuses of $4 million and $6 million in each of the next two seasons. 

The Royals confirmed the deal but did not disclose financial terms of the agreement. 

Medlen, who missed the entire 2014 season recovering from elbow surgery as a member of the Atlanta Braves, emerged as one of the top arms in the game after his full-time transition from reliever to starter in 2012. 

The 29-year-old was non-tendered by the Braves earlier this month, along with former teammate and fellow Tommy John patient Brandon Beachy, after Medlen rejected a one-year, $5.3-million contract. Atlanta's offer reportedly included a club option with a low-base salary for 2016.

The club designated infielder Johnny Giavotella for assignment in order to make room for Medlen on the 40-man roster.

It's an intriguing pickup for the American League champion Royals, who are not expected to bring back free-agent pitcher James Shields. 

Medlen, the projected Opening Day starter for the Braves in 2014, is said to be recovering well from his second Tommy John procedure and Royals general manager Dayton Moore expects him to return to action after the All-Star break.

Thursday's signing marks the second significant free-agent pitching acquisition for the Royals in as many days. The club reportedly agreed to terms with right-hander Edinson Volquez on a two-year, $20-million contract Wednesday.