Kansas City Royals: Five Players With Most to Prove in 2017

Jun 25, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Royals left fielder Alex Gordon (4) celebrates with teammate Eric Hosmer (35) after hitting a solo home run against the Houston Astros during the sixth inning at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports /

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Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Danny Duffy (41) – Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports /

ROYALS WITH THE MOST TO PROVE – NUMBER 5: DANNY DUFFY

This one might seem odd, as Danny Duffy had a magnificent 2016 campaign, but it makes sense. The former third round pick in 2007 rose to the occasion when moved to the bullpen and then further established himself when he took over in the rotation due to injuries.

With a new extension and the added pressure of being the number one guy in the rotation, Danny Duffy will definitely have something to prove in 2017.

Because of his efforts in 2016, Duffy was rewarded with an extension worth $65 million. Duffy earned that extension, but the left-hander still has a lot to prove to this organization.

Since being drafted by the Royals nearly a decade ago, Danny Duffy has been one of the more inconsistent members of this team. One season he’ll perform like an ace and the next season, injuries will take toll and the Duffman will struggle to make it through four innings.

The death of Yordano Ventura, as unfair as it is, puts even more pressure on Duffy because he’ll now be the one stepping into that ace role all on his own.

With a new extension and the added pressure of being the number one guy in the rotation (though it hasn’t been announced who the Opening Day starter is yet), Danny Duffy will definitely have something to prove in 2017.

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