Kansas City Royals Kyle Zimmer May be Hurt Yet Again

Kyle Zimmer was expected to be a key part of the Kansas City Royals future. At this point, it may be a minor upset if he reaches the majors.

It would not be a surprise if Kansas City Royals fans were beginning to wonder if Kyle Zimmer actually exists. An extremely talented pitcher, and one of the Royals top prospects, Zimmer has spent more time on the disabled list than on the mound over the course of his career. These injuries have stalled his progress, keeping him in the lower levels of the minors for most of his five professional seasons.

This year was shaping up to be different. Zimmer had made 21 appearances, working mainly as a reliever. He had finally found his way to AAA, a positive step for the young pitcher. While his 5.79 ERA and 1.561 WHiP are not exactly stellar, he was healthy. At least, until Thursday, when he suddenly lost his velocity, and left after six pitches.

Considering the abrupt nature of his departure, and the loss in velocity, this may be yet another injury for the Royals prospect. In fact, it is understandable that the Royals may be concerned about the severity of the potential injury, especially given his history.

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Regardless, it is yet another blow to Zimmer and the Royals hopes for him. Although he was getting hit and walking over four batters per nine innings, he had struck out 34 batters in his 32.2 innings. That strikeout potential could have earned him a look in September as a part of the bullpen.

Should this be the worst case scenario, Zimmer’s future may be in question. He will turn 26 in the middle of September, and despite his former status as a top prospect, has not been able to remain healthy. He could still have a productive major league career, but is no longer likely to be that top of the rotation starter the Royals hoped they had.

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Kyle Zimmer may be injured yet again. At this point, one has to wonder if he will ever be a part of the Kansas City Royals major league roster.