Danny Duffy was expected to be a key part of the Kansas City Royals rotation going forward, signing a five year extension worth $65 million. Paired with Yordano Ventura, it appeared that the Royals would have a formidable duo atop the rotation for years to come.
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However, after the tragic passing of Ventura, neither the Royals nor Duffy have been the same. After a respectable 2017 campaign, Duffy has posted a 4.74 ERA and a 1.442 WHiP, striking out 199 batters with 94 walks in his 224 innings. This is just not what Duffy had been.
It was not that long ago that Duffy looked like a possible ace for the Royals. He had gotten over his command issues, becoming a strike throwing star in the making. He had begun to tap into the potential that made him a former top prospect in the Royals system, at least before tragedy struck.
At 30 years old, Duffy is still in his prime. He is also locked in for two more seasons, with an affordable $30.8 million over that time. A change of scenery could be exactly what Duffy needs to jumpstart his career, and allow him to become the pitcher he had begun to show he could be.
Danny Duffy may be the best trade chip that the Kansas City Royals have when it comes to a realistic deal. If he comes available, the Royals might be able to get a solid return, especially if a team believes that Duffy can return to form with different surroundings.