Kansas City Royals: Could-Be Dangerous Starting Rotation

Jason Hammel

The newest addition to the KC Royals 40-man is sure to make a huge difference for this 2017 Royals squad that is currently peering over the edge of a free-agency abyss. With a two-year deal on lock, Hammel should offer the club a solid #3 option and a cushion for a guy like Nathan Karns, who could end up in the ‘pen by June. For a rotation that was struggling already, the passing of Yordano Ventura left a gaping hole. A guy like Hammel has the potential to put up Ventura-like numbers or better. Coming off of a World Series championship, you can bet Hammel will be hungry for another.

2016 stats: 15-10, 3.83 ERA, 53 BB, 144 SO

My 2017 projection: 16-12, 4.01 ERA, 50 BB, 150 SO

Jason Vargas

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Ahhh yes, Jason Vargas, the unsung hero of the 2016-2017 offseason. Vargas made a few appearances towards the end of last season after missing quite a bit of time recovering from Tommy John surgery. In just 12 innings pitched last season, he allowed just three runs and struck out eleven (!!).

This spring will be huge for Vargas as it will be his first full season back from TJ; he has a lot to prove to Dayton and Kansas City Royals Royals fans, but I believe that he will be a huge addition to the rotation going forward into this coming season. I have said it before, but Vargas is a very underrated #4 guy who has #3 or #2 starter talent.

My 2017 projection: 10-9, 3.57 ERA, 67 BB, 140 SO