Royals promote Joba Chamberlain, Louis Coleman

The Royals promoted right-handed relievers Joba Chamberlain and Louis Coleman from AAA Omaha on Monday, adding veteran depth to their bullpen. The Royals signed the 29-year old Chamberlain on August 17 to a minor league deal after he was let go by the Detroit Tigers. In seven innings with Omaha, Chamberlain gave up five runs, but struck out nine. Chamberlain is a former Nebraska Cornhusker who has a 3.82 ERA in 529.2 career Major League innings with the Yankees and Tigers. In 22 innings of relief for Detroit this year, Chamberlain had a 4.09 ERA and 5.55 FIP with 15 strikeouts and 5 walks with a line of .340/.380/.606 by opposing hitters. He was a useful reliever in 2014, posting a 3.57 ERA and 3.16 FIP in 63 innings.

The 29-year old Louis Coleman was designated for assignment by the Royals when he failed to make the club out of spring training, and surprised many when he cleared waivers and accepted assignment to Omaha. In 64 innings for Omaha, Coleman posted a 1.69 ERA with 63 strikeouts and 23 walks. In 174.1 career Major League innings with the Royals, Coleman has a 3.25 ERA with over a strikeout per inning.

To make room on the 40-man roster, the Royals designated infielder Dusty Coleman and pitcher Yohan Pino for assignment. Omaha's season ended today, prompting the promotions. Other Stormchasers that could be promoted include outfielders Brett Eibner and Jose Martinez, although neither is on the 40-man roster.