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

Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

3. Jeremy Guthrie

I know it seems like Jeremy Guthrie has been the convenient whipping boy for the concerns about the Kansas City Royals rotation. He has certainly been a good pitcher during his time in Kansas City, and an excellent teammate. He has been a strong veteran presence on what is still a relatively young pitching staff. Guthrie certainly has his uses.

However, it may be time to consider changing his role. Last week, Guthrie posted a 8.18 ERA, allowing ten runs in eleven innings. He also allowed twenty baserunners, with 17 hits and three walks, during his two starts.

This just continues a string of relatively poor performances by Jeremy Guthrie this season. Overall, he has posted a 6.52 ERA and a 1.586 WHiP. With the Royals expected to be in quite the battle with the Detriot Tigers for the Central this year, every game matters. If Guthrie is not giving the Royals what they need, then it may be time to look elsewhere.

Maybe this is just a bad month, and Jeremy Guthrie will get back to being the pitcher we have all come to expect. But his continued presence on the cold side of these lists is beginning to get concerning.

Next: Can't stay hot forever