KC Royals: Brian Flynn On His Way To Kansas City

The KC Royals are calling up pitcher Brian Flynn to replace outfielder Terrance Gore, according to WHB 810 (radio) in Kansas City:

Apparently, Kansas City Royals manager Ned Yost chose to bolster his bullpen rather than his offense. I suppose the tough starts by Chris Young and Kris Medlen along with 13 days before the team has an off day are the reasons for going with a 13-man pitching staff.

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The KC Royals acquired 26-year-old Brian Flynn from the Florida Marlins before the 2015 season for reliever Aaron Crow. Flynn pitched well in spring training, but Yost chose former Phillies closer Ryan Madson for the last bullpen spot. Madson enjoyed an excellent season with the Kansas City Royals before signing with the Oakland A’s last winter. Meanwhile, Flynn suffered an injury and made only one minor-league appearance with AAA Omaha.

The 6’7″ 250 pound Flynn has been both a starter and reliever with the Omaha Stormchasers, and is expected to add another long-relief arm to the bullpen along with Dillon Gee and Chien-Ming Wang. Flynn made his major league debut in 2013 with the Marlins, starting four games with a 8.50 ERA. He also added another start, and one relief appearance in 2014. His career ERA is an unimpressive 8.64, but he was considered major-league ready at the time of the trade.

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Flynn will give the KC Royals bullpen another lefty option besides flamethrower Danny Duffy, which will help manager Ned Yost navigate the middle innings until he can bring in his bullpen trio, or to help eat innings in games the Royals are unlikely to rally. With Yost choosing Flynn over veteran Brian Duensing, the Kansas City Royals have to expect the veteran will exercise his opt out clause on May 15 and seek a major league job with another organization.