Royals land former top pitching prospect Nate Pearson from Astros in exchange for Max Martin

The Kansas City Royals acquired right-hander Nate Pearson from the Houston Astros in exchange for minor-league right-hander Max Martin after Pearson was designated for assignment by Houston. Pearson, once a top prospect, has battled injuries and has mostly pitched in relief, but remains controllable through 2027. Kansas City cleared a roster spot by DFA’ing Kameron Misner to complete the deal, while Houston gains a lower-cost bullpen depth piece and trims some payroll.