Royals Announce Pitching Change to Bolster Bullpen

The Royals announced a pitching change on Tuesday afternoon, sending promising right-hander Jonathan Bowlan back to AAA Omaha while recalling right-handed reliever Colin Selby to the big league club.

Bowlan had a mediocre start on Monday, showcasing impressive stuff overall but surrendering three home runs in only 2.2 innings in a loss. Selby had a 9.00 ERA in 21 appearances with the Pirates in 2023 but ranks in the 89th percentile in fastball velocity, bringing a missing element to Kansas City's bullpen.

This move gives Bowlan the chance to continue developing into a potential starter at the minor league level, though Selby ultimately projects as a backend bullpen arm long-term.

Royals News: KC Brings RHP Colin Selby to Big Leagues, Demote RHP Jonathan Bowlan

The Royals currently rank eighth in the American League in bullpen ERA (3.53), though they've been mostly solid outside of Will Smith, once thought to be the team's closer.

Kansas City has been surprisingly competitive with betting odds that support a legitimate chance at the playoffs, but the weak links on the pitching staff have led to losses in winnable games.

Selby has work to do with command and preventing hard contact. Nonetheless, he represents a worthy dart throw for a Royals team that has one of the better pitching staffs overall in MLB.

I expect Bowlan to return at some point, especially if Alec Marsh's injury lingers. It's wise to keep him fresh, though I don't expect dominant performances from Selby. Fingers crossed he delivers on the promise his fastball provides.

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