Kansas City Royals: Starting Pitching Options

Edinson Volquez: Steamer Projection – 28 Starts

When the Royals signed Edinson Volquez, no one really knew what to expect. The team was losing it’s staff ‘Ace’ in James Shields and Volquez was coming off his best season in, well ever really.

Volquez exceeded expectations for the Royals and became the Royals’ most effective starter. He was the only pitcher on the staff to exceed 200 innings and 30 starts in 2015.

Not only did he pitch well for the Royals during their playoff run, he captured the hearts of the nation and endeared himself to the fans.

He also became the Royals staff ‘Ace’ in the playoffs making the start in game one of the World Series. Not only did he pitch well for the Royals during their playoff run, he captured the hearts of the nation and endeared himself to the fans.

Dealing with the loss of his father during the World Series, Volquez put together a quality start in game five of the World Series. He gave up two runs, but kept the Royals within striking distance in what would be the deciding game.

Volquez turned out to be a big acquisition for Dayton Moore and the Kansas City Royals. He’s a prime example of the kind of talent that Moore and company have brought in over the last few years.

If Volquez can repeat his numbers in 2016 and continue to mentor the young Yordano Ventura he can help the team in more ways than one.

In a repeat performance, Volquez gives the Royals the kind of steady production that the team can depend on every fifth day. As a mentor, Volquez can leave an impression on a young man that could impact the team for years to come.

Next: Test Your Mettle