Kris Bubic: Royals’ Potential Fifth Starter
Amidst the Kansas City Royals’ carefully crafted rotation, the emergence of Kris Bubic stands out as a promising development. At 27, the left-handed pitcher is eyeing the role of the Royals’ fifth starter, potentially rounding out a formidable pitching lineup alongside Cole Ragans, Seth Lugo, Michael Wacha, and Michael Lorenzen. While Bubic showcased his talent from the bullpen last season, his transition to a starting role appears imminent, backed by his impressive skills and endurance.
Scouting New Talent: Steven Zobac
Despite the Royals’ apparent starting rotation stability, concerns linger about the team’s pitching depth beyond the primary five. The Athletic’s Jim Bowden recently highlighted this as a potential weakness for the team. However, a glimmer of hope emerges in the form of pitching prospect Steven Zobac. During a scouting trip to Arizona, The Athletic’s Keith Law observed Zobac’s standout performance in a Double-A game, praising his pitching arsenal and command.
Law’s assessment of Zobac’s performance was glowing, noting his increased velocity and refined pitch selection. Zobac, a 24-year-old right-hander drafted by the Royals in 2022, displayed impressive control and an array of pitches that could potentially make him a valuable asset for Kansas City’s pitching staff. With Law’s endorsement of Zobac’s readiness for the big leagues, the Royals may have found a solution to their depth chart concerns.
Prospect to Watch: Steven Zobac
Selected as the 115th overall pick in the 2022 MLB draft, Zobac’s rapid progression and standout performance hint at a bright future ahead. Despite limited experience above A-ball, Zobac’s pitching prowess and maturity on the mound suggest that he could seamlessly transition to the Major Leagues if called upon by the Royals. The potential addition of Zobac to the Royals’ pitching rotation could not only bolster the team’s depth but also provide a promising long-term solution to their pitching needs.
Conclusion
As the Kansas City Royals navigate the complexities of their pitching staff, the emergence of Kris Bubic and the potential of Steven Zobac offer a glimpse of optimism for the team’s future. With a blend of experienced arms and promising talents, the Royals are poised to address their pitching depth concerns and solidify their position as contenders in the league. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on these rising stars as they seek to make their mark on the diamond and propel the Royals to new heights in the competitive world of Major League Baseball.