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Kansas City Royals: Five Players to Watch Vs Oakland Athletics

By Leigh Oleszczak

Apr 8, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Kansas City Royals designated hitter Salvador Perez (13) is congratulated by third base coach Mike Jirschele (23) after hitting a home run during the eighth inning against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 8, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Kansas City Royals designated hitter Salvador Perez (13) is congratulated by third base coach Mike Jirschele (23) after hitting a home run during the eighth inning against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /
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Kansas City Royals relief pitcher Matt Strahm (64) – Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Kansas City Royals relief pitcher Matt Strahm (64) – Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

MATT STRAHM

Matt Strahm is only on this list because he’s been struggling throughout these first six games. Originally penciled in as the seventh inning guy out of the bullpen, Strahm has caused panic for fans any time he’s called in as a reliever.

He looked great last season in limited appearances and appeared to have great stuff in Spring Training, so what happened?

The young left-hander has a 47.25 ERA in just three games pitched and hasn’t gotten through an appearance without allowing a run. He gave up the walk-off run to the Astros in extra innings on Sunday and has just shown signs of struggling early on this season.

I’m not sure what the play will be with Matt Strahm moving forward. He looked great last season in limited appearances and appeared to have great stuff in Spring Training, so what happened? Is he hurt again? Does he need to head back to the minor leagues to work on his pitches? What’s the best move for Strahm?

My guess is Strahm will get the rest of the month to try and work on his craft. If there’s still major signs of struggling, then sending him to Triple-A for a bit wouldn’t be a bad idea at all.

For the time being though, Matt Strahm is not a good option to stick into a close game in the seventh inning. Give me Peter Moylan instead please.

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