Kansas City Royals: Five Bargain Free Agent Starter Candidates

Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

Over the past few years, the Kansas City Royals have had a great deal of success in the middle tier of free agency. That success has truly manifested when it comes to starting pitching, as the Royals have brought in pitchers like Edinson Volquez, Chris Young and Jason Vargas, all of whom have outperformed expectations when healthy.

With the Royals payroll restrictions, it is likely that the Royals will look towards the midlevel free agent once again when it comes to filling out the rotation. With numerous free agents, and several players in line for a hefty raise via arbitration, the Royals may find themselves hard pressed to truly engage in a bidding war for a starter.

This is, however, one area where Dayton Moore has truly excelled. With Dave Eiland as pitching coach, the Royals have taken on several reclamation projects that have worked out well. Just look at the success that pitchers like Jeremy Guthrie and Ryan Madson have had while in Kansas City.

As it stands, there is only one slot in the rotation that appears to be open. Yordano Ventura, Volquez, Danny Duffy and Kris Medlen appear to be set in the top four spots, with the Royals truly in need of an option towards the end of the staff. Even though Miguel Almonte and Kyle Zimmer may receive long looks during Spring Training, it would not be a surprise for the Royals to bring in a pitcher who may be a solid candidate to bounce back to their previous level of success.

Who could the Kansas City Royals consider for the back end of the rotation? Here are a few candidates that Moore may be able to sign for a bargain.

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