Spring Training Game XX: Royals v. Diamondbacks

We are a week away from Opening Day 2021. A full 162 game slate with fans in the stands. Until then, the Royals have five more exhibition games, starting with the Diamondbacks. Kansas City has won just one game since March 16th after a red-hot start to the season. During that stretch, they are 1-4 with three ties.

Danny Duffy goes to the mound in his final tune-up of the spring looking to solidify his spot in the rotation. He is slated as the #2 according to the Royals official website, but with leading prospect Brady Singer and newly-signed Mike Minor immediately behind him, the 2022 free agent has a lot to prove in 2021.

Jakob Junis’ lack of success in the rotation and subsequent move to the bullpen seemingly keeps Duffy secure for the season. But with guys like Daniel Lynch, Jackson Kowar, and Asa Lacy on the fast-track to Kansas City, looking to join Keller and Singer, 2021 is definitely a prove-it season for Duffy.

If not for Kansas City, then for his own free agency bid.

His 4.85 ERA this spring isn’t shiny, but it’s also the result of his March 9th outing where he gave up five runs in 3.0 innings. Over his past two starts, he has given up just a single earned run in eight innings while striking out 10 batters. And that includes a perfect four innings against San Francisco back on March 15.

He’ll be opposed by former Cardinal and former 1st round pick Luke Weaver. The right-hander is coming off a brutal 2020 season, losing nine of his 10 decisions with an ERA of 6.58.

Here are your lineups for this afternoon’s contest.

Bonus content:

Here’s Sal telling the story of his walk-off hit in the 2014 AL Wild Card game. Enjoy.

Up Next: Kansas City Royals at Texas Rangers, Friday, March 26, 8:05 PM CDT, Surprise Stadium. RHP Jackson Kowar (2-1, 6.97 ERA) v. LHP Taylor Hearn (0-1, 4.22 ERA).