Lake Buena Vista, FL -- (Sports Network) - The Kansas City Royals have agreed to terms with right-hander Gil Meche on a five-year contract for a reported $55 million.

"We are proud to be a part of the process and delighted that Gil Meche made the decision to join the Royals," said Kansas City general manager Dayton Moore. "He is an impact pitching talent who fits in with our plan for long term success. At 28, he is entering the prime of his career."

The largest contract in Royals' history is Mike Sweeney's current five-year, $55 million deal that is set to expire at the end of next season.

Meche, 28, was 11-8 last season for Seattle, while pitching to a 4.48 ERA. Since entering the league in 1999 with the Mariners, Meche has amassed a 55-44 mark to go along with a 4.65 ERA.

Considered one of the top second-tier pitchers available this offseason, Meche surprisingly chose Kansas City over the Chicago Cubs and Toronto Blue Jays.

Kansas City also has an offer on the table for free agent righty Miguel Batista, as well as reliever Octavio Dotel, who would serve as the team's closer. The team, though, believes Batista will sign elsewhere.