KC Royals: Five huge IFs for deep postseason push in 2021

KC Royals can make deep postseason run if…

Keller and Singer become legit top rotation pitchers and Bubic, Lynch, and Kowar continue developing

The starting rotation has gotten a lot of flack this offseason and I’m not entirely sure why. No, there aren’t any household names in the Royals’ rotation, but there’s no one in this bunch that fans are dreading seeing on the mound (then again, it’s too early to tell).

This season is huge for the rotation though, as there are going to be three younger pitchers in this group in Brad Keller, Brady Singer, and Kris Bubic. Keller is getting the Opening Day start for the second time in his career and is the unquestioned ace of the staff as the Royals enter the 2021 campaign.

Keller had a nice 2020 season despite missing the first few weeks due to testing positive for COVID-19. Picking up right where he left off that year is crucial for this team moving forward because Keller is still young and has shown he can be the leader this rotation needs.

As for Singer, he’s a former first-round pick and while his 2020 numbers don’t necessarily pop off the page, there was a lot to like about his rookie performance. Keller and Singer showing they can be legitimate No. 1 and No. 2 options this year would be a massive win for the Royals.

At the same time, while they don’t need to be on the same level as Keller and Singer, it’s important to see the other young names develop as well. Bubic had his moments last year and needs to work on his command during his likely short stint in the minors while Lynch and Kowar need to continue perfecting their craft in the minors before their call-ups come.

If Keller and Singer transform into legitimate No. 1 and No. 2 options while Bubic, Lynch, and Kowar show major progressions, the Royals’ rotation will slowly but surely move up the rankings.