Kansas City Royals: What each member of 2020 draft class can provide

Christian Chamberlain, LHP (20-years-old)

Christian Chamberlain is a 5’10”, 173 pound left-handed hitting pitcher selected 105th overall out of Oregon State University. Chamberlain tied a College World Series record with an 11-strikeout relief appearance as a freshman and was putting up video game numbers in the 2020 NCAA season before coronavirus outbreak shutdown the season.

His arsenal features an above-average curveball, slightly above-average fastball, slightly above-average change-up, and average control. There is some noticeable effort to his mechanics and may have more longevity as a reliever.

• Best Outcome: Chamberlain’s scouting grades project him to be number four/five type starter (4.50 FIP). He could generate more velocity as physically matures. He needs to work on his release mechanics to find better command if he’s going to start. WAR = 1.0 – 1.7 range.
• Likely Outcome: As a reliever, his stuff plays up. Chamberlain has been able to miss bats a plenty with Oregon State (career 12.0 K/9 in 105 innings). WAR = 0.0 – 0.9 range.

Will Klein, RHP (20-years-old)

Will Klein is a 6’5”, 230 pound, right-handed hitting pitcher selected 135th overall out of Eastern Illinois University. Klein reached 99 mph with his fastball during the Northwoods League last year in route to a sub 1.00 ERA season. His arsenal features a plus fastball, above-average curveball, slightly below-average change-up, and average control.

• Best Outcome: Klein will need to develop his change-up to become a starter. He has a good ceiling and is capable of developing into a number four type starter (4.00 FIP) or high leverage reliever. WAR = 1.0 – 1.7 range.
• Likely Outcome: Klein could be flame throwing middle reliever if he becomes a more consistent strike thrower. WAR = 0.0 – 0.9 range.