Correa Joins Monarchs Pitching Staff

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LINCOLN, Neb. — A former Royals prospect is joining the Kansas City Monarchs just in time for the playoff push.

Jean Correa, a 25-year-old pitcher from Venezuela, has signed with the American Association club, the Monarchs announced Wednesday.

Correa made his pro debut in the Dominican Summer League with the Royals in 2018 at the age of 20, playing there for two years. He comes to the Monarchs from the Reds organization, where he reached High-A last season.

The Guayana, Venezuela native earned a 2.01 ERA in the DSL his second year in 2019, striking out 28 against just three walks in 15 appearances.

After sitting out in 2020 during the pandemic, Correa made his American debut with Rocky Mountain in the Pioneer League, an MLB partner circuit. He struck out 94 in 90 innings of work over 18 games (16 starts). He ranked in the top 10 in strikeouts and innings pitched that season in one of the most hitter-friendly leagues in the country.

Correa moved within the league to the Billings Mustangs for the 2022 season. He began the season in the bullpen, moving to the rotation in late June. He took a no-hitter into the eighth inning in his first start against Boise, eventually throwing a 94-pitch complete-game shutout.

After six innings of two-run baseball against Rocky Mountain one start later, Correa had his contract transferred to the Reds organization. He pitched to a 1.80 ERA in eight games (one start) between Rookie ball, Class A and High-A that summer.

Correa spent most of 2023 back with Class A Daytona. He struck out 8.7 batters per nine innings over 17 appearances with the Tortugas this year. He also made five appearances in the Arizona Complex League with the Reds.

The Monarchs hold the American Association’s best record heading into Wednesday’s action. They lead the West Division by six games with 12 games left in their regular season.