Kansas City Royals: The four best closer options
By David Hill
Brad Boxberger
Even though Brad Boxberger may not have that Certified Proven Closer label, he is the closest that the Kansas City Royals have on their roster.
Over the course of his seven year career, Boxberger has been a closer twice, serving one year in that role for both the Rays and the Diamondbacks. During that season with the Rays, he was an All Star, leading the AL with 41 saves in 2015. After that season, he returned to more of a setup role with the Rays, before his trade to the Diamondbacks last year.
Inserted back into the closer role, Boxberger did not have that same level of success that he found in his previous stint as a closer. Last year, he posted an underwhelming 4.39 ERA and a 1.425 WHiP over his 53.1 innings of work. While he did notch 32 saves and struck out 71 batters, Boxberger also issued 32 walks, a concerning number for any reliever.
Signed on a one year contract, Boxberger has a chance to resurrect his career with the Royals. His role is not a given at this point, as he could serve as the primary option in the eighth inning at the start of the year. However, if Peralta falters, or if Boxberger has a truly impressive Spring, the closer role could be his.
Brad Boxberger is the closest thing to a proven closer on the Kansas City Royals roster. If he can improve his command, that role might be his for the taking.