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

Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

2. Chris Young

When the Kansas City Royals signed Chris Young this offseason, it did not make much sense at first. The rotation was pretty much set, and having Young in the bullpen seemed like an unnecessary luxury. Fortunately, I’m not the one making the decisions for the Royals.

All Chris Young has done is possibly become the savior of the Royals rotation. Stepping in since Jason Vargas has been injured, Young has been one of the Royals best starters thus far. Last week, he allowed only one run on four hits and two walks, striking out two in his 5.2 innings of work. Even though that was a solid start, it is actually the worst one he has had this season.

If this is what passes as a “bad start” for Young, the Royals would certainly take it every time out. Even if Young is not quite stretched out to the point where he can pitch into the seventh, he has given the Royals a solid outing each time out, and has been more than they could have ever hoped for.

Chris Young revitalized his career after having surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome, and was the American League Comeback Player of the Year last season. This year, Young may end up as an important part of the Royals postseason hopes.

Next: The new ace of the staff?