Royals May Have Dodged a Bullet with Danny Duffy

It is possible to argue that Danny Duffy has been the Royals best starting pitcher this season. Even though Duffy has only gone 8-11 thus far, he has posted a 2.42 ERA, which would rank third in the American League. He has dominated the opposition, holding opposing teams to a .201/.277/.308 batting line and a mere 6.5 hits per nine innings. Duffy’s presence in the rotation has been a boost for the Royals this season, and may well be a major reason as to why the Royals find themselves in the playoff hunt.

Unfortunately for the Royals and Duffy, it appeared as though he may not be around for the rest of the playoff hunt. After throwing one p itch against the New York Yankees on Saturday, he was removed from the game with shoulder soreness. When it was announced that he would be getting an MRI, the Royals and their fans had to be holding their collective breath.

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Fortunately for both the Royals and Danny Duffy, it appears as though they have dodged a bullet. Duffy has been diagnosed with inflammation in his rotator cuff, and will miss his next start. Right now, it appears as though a few days of rest may be enough, as his shoulder is considered structurally sound.

“He (Duffy) has rotator cuff inflammation and will require three to four days of rest before being reevaluated. He will not make his next start,” General Manager Dayton Moore said.

Duffy is going to end up being reevaluated after his period of rest to make sure there is nothing wrong that was hidden by the inflammation. However, if everything continues to progress as expected, Duffy will be back on the mound in another week and a half. As important a piece as Duffy has been this season, the sooner he can return, the better.

The Royals need Danny Duffy back, and healthy, in order to continue their postseason push. Fortunately, it looks as though he may be back sooner rather than later.