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KC Royals: Minor Leaguers Most Likely to Shine in 2017

By Leigh Oleszczak

Aug 31, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Royals pitcher Matt Strahm (64) delivers a pitch against the New York Yankees during the thirteenth inning at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 31, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Royals pitcher Matt Strahm (64) delivers a pitch against the New York Yankees during the thirteenth inning at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports /
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Royals coaches - Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
KC Royals managers – Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /

JAKE JUNIS

Jake Junis is on the Royals’ 25-man roster and could finally see his shot at some time in the spotlight in 2017.

Junis, a 29th round pick by the club in 2011, has worked his way up the Royals ranks. He split the 2016 season between Omaha and Northwest Arkansas to the tune of a 4.05 ERA in 27 starts and 149 innings thrown.

While casual Royals fans likely have never heard of Junis, the kid could be an option for the rotation should an injury occur. He, like Matt Strahm, will probably spend the beginning of the season in the bullpen, but I could see him eventually being used as a starter.

Junis has been starting games for the minor league teams, so it’s all just a matter of if he shows signs of being ready to start in spring training.

He could be a work in progress for sure, but I’d love to see Jake Junis get an opportunity next season. The guy could end up being a starter for the Royals.

Jake Junis is a name to watch this offseason because he could be a very promising rookie in 2017.

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