A former Royal is close to making his return to Kansas City to help stabilize the bullpen for 2024.

The Royals are close to finalizing a deal with lefty reliever Will Smith, a source told MLB.com on Sunday. It would be a one-year deal worth $5 million, along with performance bonuses.

The team has not confirmed the deal, which is pending a physical. The Royals will have to make a 40-man roster move once the signing becomes official.