Major League Baseball

Source: Royals have deal with righty Thompson

Published Nov. 19, 2009 5:04 p.m. ET

foxsports

As a minor league free agent, Thompson was able to agree on a 2010 contract prior to Friday, when major league free agents can begin signing with new clubs.

Thompson is 21-17 with a 4.36 in 185 major league appearances, all with the St. Louis Cardinals. He has made 32 starts in the big leagues.

He appeared in 32 games for the Cardinals this year, including eight starts. He went 2-6 with a 4.84 ERA.

The contract doesn't include a spot on the 40-man roster, the source said, but Thompson should have a good chance to break camp with the Royals in the spring.