Kansas City Royals: Jason Adam optioned, Jake Newberry called up

The Kansas City Royals announced a few roster moves Saturday. They optioned Jason Adam to the Omaha Storm Chasers. In addition, they selected the contract of Jake Newberry from Omaha.

Out with the old…

Jason Adam is in his rookie season with the Kansas City Royals. He started off hot, but his outing against the Chicago White Sox where he allowed five earned runs in just one third of an inning was reason enough to send him down to the minor leagues to find his groove again.

Adam posted an ERA of 2.79 in the month of May. Since, he has fallen apart. He now has an ERA of 6.12 through 32.1 innings of work. Adam is 27. In his four appearances prior to his meltdown against the White Sox, he actually held opponents scoreless. Obviously, the inflated ERA is in large part due to his one bad game, where he lasted less than an inning.

In with the new…

Jake Newberry has pitched 49.2 innings in relief this season, making appearances with both Omaha and the Northwest Arkansas Naturals in 2018. Through that time, he has tallied 53 strikeouts, allowed 14 walks, and posted an ERA of 1.63. In addition, he also is 15 for 16 in save opportunities.

In his time with Omaha, he has posted an ERA of 0.90, and Newberry’s record sat at 3-0. 5-0 overall, including his time this season with the Naturals.

Final thoughts

This is a good move by the Kansas City Royals. Jake Newberry seems to be hitting his stride at the right time. The former 37th round pick in 2012 is likely to be given an opportunity soon. At this point in the season, it is worth giving guys opportunities to see who is really ready for time in the Major League. Plus, hopefully the time in the minors for Jason Adam will help him to return to how he was performing previously.

What do you think, Royals fans? Was this a smart move by the Kansas City Royals? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!