Kansas City Royals Week Four Review: Who’s Hot, Who’s Not

Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

2. Chris Young

Chris Young was a nice security blanket for the Kansas City Royals. Sitting in the bullpen as a long reliever, Young is an excellent depth pitcher for the starting rotation, and a good soldier who understands his role. He has been solid this season as a reliever, biding his time until he gets to start.

He was certainly impressive this week, allowing only one hit over six shutout innings. However, Young truly impressed in that spot start, striking out nine in five no hit innings against the Tigers on Friday. That outing would have been impressive in its own right, but as a spot start, it was truly amazing.

While Young was originally slated as a depth piece, that outing may have helped him make a case to remain in the starting rotation. Jeremy Guthrie (more on him later) struggled again this week, and considering the fight the Royals are likely to have with the Tigers for the Central, one has to wonder how long they can keep him in the rotation. Young definitely put himself into the conversation to take his place.

Chris Young made a truly excellent start for the Kansas City Royals last week. He may have several more coming in the near future.

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