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Royals return pitcher Sam McWilliams to the Rays

How will you remember the Sam McWilliams era?

MLB: Kansas City Royals-Media Day Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

The Royals have returned pitcher Sam McWilliams to the Rays, bringing the number of players remaining in camp to 35. The Royals had acquired the 23-year old-hander in the Rule 5 draft last December, but opted to return him rather than carry him on their 25-man roster. McWilliams was trying to make the jump from AA ball, where he had a 5.02 ERA with 94 strikeouts in 100 13 innings with Montgomery in the Southern League last year. He struggled in camp with the Royals, allowing ten runs in 4 23 innings with six walks and two strikeouts.

The Royals still have their other Rule 5 draft acquisitions, Chris Ellis, still in camp. Ellis has struggled as well, giving up 11 runs in 10 innings, although with 10 strikeouts to just three walks.