KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The Kansas City Monarchs have brought in their latest major-league talent. 

Right-hander Ryan Castellani, who pitched in the big leagues as recently as last season, has signed with the Monarchs for 2023, the club announced Saturday. 

Monarchs manager Joe Calfapietra says Castellani’s impact will go beyond what fans see on the field. 

“Talking with Ryan, I know he’s going to be a real asset for us in the clubhouse,” Calfapietra said. “He’s a big leaguer on and off the field. We’re happy he’s decided to come to Kansas City.”

Castellani, 26, suited up for the Oakland Athletics last season, making three appearances early in the year. He has 14 MLB games on his resume with the A’s and Colorado Rockies. Along the way, he turned heads for his curveball and a delivery that looks strikingly similar to Max Scherzer’s.

“His stuff speaks for itself,” Calfapietra said.

Castellani, who was born in Philadelphia and grew up in Phoenix, made his major-league debut with Colorado in 2020. He finished the season with the Rockies, posting a 5.82 ERA in 10 appearances (nine starts). The majority of his games came at the hitter-friendly Coors Field.

A second-round draft pick by Colorado out of high school in Phoenix, Castellani quickly rose through the ranks in the Rockies’ system. He pitched in the prestigious Arizona Fall League in both 2018 and 2019. He impressed the moment he made it to the bigs, tossing four no-hit innings in his MLB debut on August 8 against Seattle.

Castellani has one more stop before heading to Kansas City: The right-hander is on Italy’s World Baseball Classic roster.

The Monarchs have won three straight division championships in the American Association, an MLB Partner League.

The Monarchs open the upcoming season on Friday, May 12, on the road against the Sioux City Explorers. Their 2023 home opener is set for Friday, May 19 against the Sioux Falls Canaries. Fans can buy tickets, check out upcoming promotions and learn more about the team at MonarchsBaseball.com.

Follow the Monarchs on Twitter @KSCityMonarchs, on Instagram @KC_Monarchs, and at Facebook.com/KCMonarchsBaseball.