Kansas City Royals: Five Moves for the Offseason
By David Hill
Extend Danny Duffy
Over the past couple of years, the Kansas City Royals have been waiting for Yordano Ventura to blossom into an ace. Instead, Ventura has struggled with his emotions and maturity. Meanwhile, Danny Duffy, who the Royals have shuffled between the rotation and the bullpen, appears set to take that step forward.
Prior to tiring down the stretch, Duffy had put together a campaign that would have ranked amongst the best in the American League. Through August 21, Duffy had an 11-1 record with a 2.66 ERA and a 1.010 WHiP, striking out 147 batters against 29 walks in 138.2 innings. That is, quite simply, the type of production a true ace would provide.
Although Duffy tired down the stretch, it was to be expected as he threw the most innings of his career. However, with a full offseason to get ready to be in the rotation, and the knowledge that he would be counted on to front the Royals pitching staff, those fatigue issues could be easily solved.
Coming off a season where he made $4.23 Million, this may be the best time to extend Duffy. He has one more year of arbitration left, and should Duffy follow up his 2016 campaign with a similar season, he could be outside of their price range. An extension would certainly carry risk, but of the possible options to step in as the staff ace, Duffy is the pitcher who is closest to taking on that role.
The Kansas City Royals have been waiting to develop a staff ace. As it turns out, they may have been looking in the wrong direction. Now, they need to lock in Danny Duffy before it is too late.