Royals Claim Former Giants Pitcher Spencer Bivens Off Waivers

On Saturday, the Royals claimed former San Francisco Giants reliever Spencer Bivens off waivers. Kansas City promptly optioned him to Omaha, according to the team's social media. 

Bivens was a productive reliever for the Giants in 2024 and 2025 before being designated for assignment on September 9th. 

In 2024, his rookie year, he posted a 3.14 ERA and 1.19 WHIP in 27 appearances and 48.2 IP. Last year, he posted a 4.00 ERA and 1.33 WHIP in 54 appearances and 81.2 IP. While his ERA was higher, his 3.72 FIP last year was better than his 4.72 FIP in 2024. 

When looking at his Statcast percentiles, Bivens showed a strong ability to generate weak contact and chase as a reliever. 

Nivens ranked in the 88th percentile in GB%, 80th percentile in average EV allowed, 67th percentile in hard-hit%, and 66th percentile in O-Swing% last year. 

This year, in limited action, he posted a 14.40 ERA and 3.00 WHIP. However, he generated a 4.90 FIP, 26.7% K%, and 13.3% K-BB%. While he saw decreases in his O-Swing%, GB%, and average EV, he showed much stronger CSW% and whiff%. He also has three above-average pitches TJ Stuff+ wise: the sinker (102), sweeper (107), and cutter (102). 

Bivens has two Minor League options remaining and is still in pre-arbitration. He likely will compete for a Royals bullpen spot in 2027.