KC Royals: Top 5 moments from July 2019

Brad Keller was phenomenal (or perhaps “Stellar”) in July and showed his true capabilities as a starting pitcher moving forward.

Brad Keller had two signature games in July – where he completely dominated the opposition. He tossed eight innings, allowed one run, and only four hits on Jul. 12 against the Detroit Tigers (yes, I know).

However, two starts later he pitched seven innings against the eventual National League East Champions Atlanta Braves (also Keller’s hometown team) on Jul. 24. He did not allow any runs this time around, and even singled-in his first career RBI by hitting a line drive to center field, and scoring Nicky Lopez from third base (which turned became the only run support he needed). He also drew his first career walk.

Keller finished the night with 7 IPs, 0 ER, 4 Hs, 1 BB, and 3 Ks – oh, and 1-for-2 at the plate with an RBI.

"From Ben Weinrib, MLB.com: “It didn’t surprise me. He’s a kid that we opted to be our Opening Day starter for a lot of reasons. He’s got poise, he’s got great stuff, he’s a great competitor. He doesn’t back down. The situation wouldn’t be too big for him. It’s the same thing tonight. When they announced his name, you could hear the cheering section they had for him. It was a big one. Boy, he stepped up and pitched the way I expected him to pitch.” – Royals Manager Ned Yost"

Keller had the best month of his career as he closed out July with a 3-1 record, 2.12 ERA, and 24 Ks over 5 starts. If he can put together more months like these, he’ll definitely become a force to be reckoned with at the top of the rotation for many years to come with the KC Royals.