Patrick Schuster Gets Sent Back to the Arizona Diamondbacks

Feb 21, 2014; Peoria, AZ, USA; San Diego Padres relief pitcher Patrick Schuster (57) poses for a photo during photo day at Peoria Sports Complex. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Patrick Schuster, we hardly knew ye.

After acquiring Schuster off waivers from the San Diego Padres, who acquired him from the Houston Astros after the first pick of the Rule V Draft, it was thought that Schuster may potentially be competition for Francisley Bueno for the final spot in the Royals bullpen. Instead, less than 48 hours after acquiring him, Schuster has reportedly been sent back to the Arizona Diamondbacks.

So, what was the point of picking up Schuster? Was it really nothing more than an attempt to sneak Carlos Peguero through waivers while other teams were distracted with their own moves?

The only answer that seems to make sense is that the Royals wanted to free up a spot on their 40 man roster. However, who would that spot go to? Are the Royals thinking that another player could be designated for assignment that may be able to help the major league roster? Or, could they be looking ahead for the future, and keep that spot open for a prospect to come up, maybe someone like Kyle Zimmer?

Whatever the reason for the move, and subsequent return to Arizona, Patrick Schuster’s tenure with the Royals has come to an end. Maybe, in another day or two, we can put his glamorous career as a member of the Royals in context.