Bullpen plans crumble as injuries and velocity issues plague the Royals
This stable of arms has been a disaster.
Bullpen plans crumble as injuries and velocity issues plague the Royals originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . Last season, the Kansas City Royals had a solid closer, Carlos Estevez.
He appeared in 67 games, compiling a 2. 45 ERA and 54 strikeouts with an MLB-leading 42 saves. And he was expected to resume his role this season with little trouble.
However, that has just not been the case. Estevez struggled in spring training, with his velocity taking a dip, and he only made one appearance during the regular season so far before he headed to the IL after taking a 103. 5 mph line drive off his left foot.
MORE: Royals sign former two-way player for bullpen depth Bullpen plans crumble as injuries and velocity issues plague the Royals With Estevez down, the club has turned to Lucas Ecreg to handle the closing duties. And despite having six saves to his name, there are some clear concerns. He has a bit of a ballooned ERA, sitting at 4.