Braves trade Nick Anderson to Royals for cash

The Kansas City Royals added a veteran bullpen piece, acquiring right-hander Nick Anderson from the Atlanta Braves for cash considerations, the clubs announced Friday.

The Royals designated left-hander Austin Cox for assignment in a corresponding roster move.

Anderson put together a strong season for the Braves in 2023, registering a 3.06 ERA with 36 strikeouts in 35 1/3 innings. His season was cut short after he suffered a shoulder strain in July.

The 33-year-old returned to the mound after missing the entire 2022 season following Tommy John surgery.

Anderson developed into one of baseball's best relievers with the Tampa Bay Rays, posting a 1.85 ERA and 14.0 K/9 over parts of three seasons from 2019-21.