Kansas City Royals: Potential 2018 Starting Rotation

Newly acquired “Long-shot” starters:

Newly acquired pitcher, Burch Smith, could be a bright spot for the Royals. He was taken in the Rule 5 Draft by the Royals from the Tampa Bay Rays. Last year Smith worked his way to Triple-A within the Rays organization and had some success. During the 2017 season he posted a 2.40 ERA over 12 games.

With a strong showing during Spring Training, Smith stands a chance to make the rotation for the 2018 season. Due to being taken in the Rule 5 Draft, Smith has to stay on the 25-man roster, or he will potentially be sent back to Tampa. In short, he will most likely be a long-reliever for the Royals to keep him stretched out for spot starts if needed.

Lastly, Wily Peralta could make some starts for the Royals. When Dayton Moore signed Peralta during the off-season Moore indicated that he wants to use him as a bullpen arm. His ability to touch upper 90’s with is fastball give the Royals a strong righty coming out of the bullpen. However, do not be surprised if the original plan of using him as a bullpen arm disappears and they transition him into being a starter.