KC Royals to place emphasis on pitching if rosters expand

If the MLB expands roster sizes upon a potential return to play, the KC Royals are likely to add pitching before anything else.

The MLB’s return is far from certain at this point and no one is sure when it will possibly occur, but that hasn’t stopped the KC Royals from thinking ahead. Manager Mike Matheny and general manager Dayton Moore have both put some thought into potentially expanded rosters and what they’d look like for the Boys in Blue.

In an article published by MLB.com’s Jeffrey Flanagan, he addressed the idea of expanding from 26 players to as many as 28 or 29. This would not only allow teams more lineup or bullpen flexibility in a condensed season, but it would also ensure no one gets overworked after having time off from normally-scheduled games. While our Mike Gillespie recently discussed how he would stock a 29-man roster, Matheny and Moore have ideas of their own.

"“If it was 28 (players), we’d go two pitchers. It all depends on how we condense the season, how much time we have to get ready for a season.” – Matheny"

Moore echoed that sentiment, adding that the team still has work to do on the roster front. Internally, of course. Things weren’t set in stone from a roster standpoint when spring training was canceled so until it’s known how many players teams will be working with, it’s hard to tell who could join the fold.

Bullpen pitching will be the difference between good and bad teams this season. It’ll also be the difference between good and great ones. Although the KC Royals don’t project to win a ton of games in 2020, they have some interesting relief options.

Trevor Rosenthal and Greg Holland are two of the hottest names dropped in the bullpen battle, as both are former All-Stars attempting to resurrect their careers. Tyler Zuber is an electric young pitcher that’s already turned some heads here at Kings of Kauffman. Youngsters Josh Staumont and Richard Lovelady offer good potential. Don’t count out Jesse Hahn, Randy Rosario or Stephen Woods Jr., though.

Contending teams may benefit from possible expanded rosters more than the Royals. That’s okay, though, as the 2020 season is all about figuring out who belongs with the team long-term. Two or three more bodies in the bullpen once play begins will help solve that problem.

Pitching, pitching, pitching. The KC Royals need lots of it and if the team’s new skipper has his way, there will be no shortage of arms to go around.