Ranking potential closer options for Kansas City Royals

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SEATTLE, WA – JULY 05: Kelvin Herrera /

No. 1 Kelvin Herrera

The sole survivor of the deadly HDH bullpen is Kelvin Herrera. He is also the only one that has not put together an All-Star season in the closer’s role for the Kansas City Royals. After graduating from the seventh inning to the eighth inning, 2017 was going to be his chance to do exactly that.

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Except he was terrible. In the year that he was supposed to shine his brightest, Herrera had his worst season as a major league pitcher. He gave up more than one hit per inning and a career-high nine home runs. Fans began to question whether he has the mental fortitude to be a closer. His slider didn’t work for much of the year and his confidence crumbled. By the end of the year he was hurt and dethroned by Minor.

The smart money would be on Herrera bouncing back in 2018. His career up to last year proves that he is capable of being an elite reliever. Assuming he is back with the team and doesn’t get shelled in spring training, he should get the first crack at closing.

A dominant season by Herrera would only add to the legacy of the HDH bullpen and would be a wonderful sight to see. Here’s hoping he can put it all together and do what Greg Holland and Wade Davis did before him.

Next: Early look at Royals 2018 schedule

What do you think? Who’s the best closer option for the Royals? Let us know your thoughts.

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