KC Royals: Jakob Junis continues to keep himself in rotation discussions

The KC Royals moved Jakob Junis to the bullpen at the end of last year but the guy looked good in his first start of the 2021 season. 

Moving Jakob Junis to the bullpen was a smart decision for the Kansas City Royals. Junis had good stuff but was never able to capitalize on that while starting games, so putting him in games where he’s only expected to pitch maybe an inning or two made a lot of sense.

Well, Mike Matheny had Junis start the game on Wednesday against Cleveland in what many thought would be more of a bullpen kind of game. Instead, Junis pitched five scoreless innings and now the discussions will surround Junis potentially being in play for the No. 5 spot in the rotation.

As we all know, Kris Bubic was optioned to the minor leagues prior to the season in what was likely a strategic move for the team to ensure KC had more relievers during their first week and a half of action. With Junis’ top-notch performance on Wednesday, however, perhaps Bubic will stay in the minors longer than we expected.

Jakob Junis pitched well and might find himself back in the KC Royals’ rotation.

Ryan Lefebvre said on the television broadcast that this start wasn’t an audition for Junis. The Royals appear adamant on having him pitch out of the bullpen where he can really utilize his stuff. We’ve seen him do well in his two relief appearances so far this season, throwing two scoreless innings. Now, however, he’s up to seven scoreless innings on the year.

If the Royals can get the best out of Junis as a reliever, then that’s where he should stay. The plan on Wednesday was likely to use Junis as more of an opener rather than a starter, but when he was wheeling and dealing through the Indians’ lineup, it became harder to justify pulling him.

Even if Junis remains a reliever, the next time the Royals need a starter not already in their rotation, he’ll likely be the guy they turn to if it’s practical. Because of his previous experience as a starter, Junis will always be a consideration to have start on the mound, but when push comes to shove, Kansas City needs to stick to their guns here and keep him in the bullpen.

Would you want the Royals to move Junis back to the rotation or do you agree that keeping him in the pen is what’s best for the team?