Kansas City Royals get return for Danny Duffy

The Kansas City Royals did not make many moves at the trade deadline, but one move was expected to make a difference. Danny Duffy, despite being on the Injured List, was sent to the Dodgers for a Player to be Named Later. As Duffy had his return delayed seemingly by the week, only to never return, one had to imagine that return for the Royals would not be significant.

As it turns out, the Royals have added an intriguing relief prospect as that PTBNL. Zach Willeman is heading to Kansas City for Duffy, bringing another interesting arm to the organization.

Kansas City Royals have their PTBNL

A former college starter, Willeman has typically been used as a reliever professionally. He spent the entire 2021 season in the bullpen in Double-A, posting a respectable 3.78 ERA and a 1.364 WHiP over his 47.2 innings, striking out 59 batters with 23 walks. Those marks, in terms of K/9 and BB/9, are amongst the best of his professional career.

Armed with a mid 90s fastball, along with a solid curve and slider, he does have the potential to intrigue on a major league front. The Royals will need to determine how close they feel he is, as Willeman will need to be added to the 40 man roster to be protected from the Rule V Draft.

Considering that the Royals desperately need relievers, it would not be a surprise to see Willeman get that chance. He does have the type of stuff that can make a difference in a major league bullpen, although it is far more likely that he would start the season in Triple-A. If he can get off to a fast start in Omaha, Willeman could get a chance in Kansas City by the end of the year.

The Kansas City Royals have completed the Danny Duffy trade. Zach Willeman may not grab much attention, but he could be an intriguing reliever.