KC Royals: Who Should Be Named Closer in 2016

The KC Royals were able to move past losing Greg Holland last season due to a plethora of lock down relievers. Wade Davis didn’t falter at all filling in, but is he the best option in 2016?

The Royals are in a unique situation as they have, in my estimation, five candidates that could fill the role of closer. The obvious choices are names like Kelvin Herrera, Joakim Soria, and of course Wade Davis. But what about other alternatives like Luke Hochevar or even Danny Duffy?

Before I make my case for each of the following pitchers as a closer, let me explain why Wade Davis isn’t the only choice in my opinion.

First, let’s take a look at the role of the closer. Their role is to come into the game with the tying run at least being ‘on deck’ to hit, and not give up the lead while getting the last out in a game. (Exactly how to earn a save can get pretty technical, but that’s the gist. For full detail on how to earn a save see it defined here)

Greg Holland managed to do this 32 times in 2014 in 37 chances. He also only earned two losses compared to 2014 where he earned the loss on three occasions. Holland was able to earn 32 saves in spite of an ERA and WHIP that were both career highs, not counting his rookie year, of 3.83 and 1.46 respectively. Those 32 saves came in only 48 appearances. The American league saves leader, Brad Boxberger earned only 9 more saves than Holland and needed 21 more appearances to get there. The point I’m trying to make is your closer doesn’t have to be the best reliever to be effective at earning saves.

The second reason Wade Davis may not be the best candidate to close is Ned Yost.

Ned Yost has done a fine job as the KC Royals Skipper since taking over. In fact, he’s been better than fine leading the Royals to back to back World Series berths. While Ned draws a lot of criticism, including from myself at times, he’s earned the right to do what he wants to do. One of the things he doesn’t do, is use his closer on the road in a tie game.

If Wade Davis is named ‘closer’, that means the Royals best pitcher isn’t on the hill in a tie game, on the road, in the ninth. If a walk off shot is enough to give the other team a win, Wade Davis is who I want in the game. He may be TOO good, to have in the game only when holding a lead.

Let’s take a look at all of the Royals relievers who I think have the means to be the Royals’ closer in 2016.

Next: The Obvious Choice