Can Kris Bubic recapture his All-Star magic for the Kansas City Royals? The journey back to elite form is often a winding one, and for Bubic, it seems to be picking up steam. During recent live batting practice, he gave fans a glimpse of his pitching prowess, even offering a few personal critiques. While he felt his fastball was on point, he noted his changeup could have been a bit sharper. However, the overall impression was undeniably strong, a positive sign as the Royals gear up for Cactus League play.
Bubic himself acknowledged the significance of simply being back on the mound. "Getting back out there is step No. 1," he shared, emphasizing the value of immediate feedback and the visual of a hitter in the box. He also expressed gratitude for his teammates' unwavering support, having been with him through both his successes and his rehabilitation. "I'm excited and I know they are excited. Obviously, we just want to keep it going."
But here's where it gets interesting: What does this mean for the rest of the team's pitching staff?
Veteran Salvador Perez also chimed in, reflecting on his own recent playing time. "It was amazing," he said, recalling his December stint with Caracas. He believes this experience will be invaluable, offering a different rhythm than the typical spring training live BP. "It's kind of different to face some pitchers and not wait for a month to face pitchers here in live BP in spring training."
Meanwhile, Ben Kudrna is poised to make a significant impression this spring, with the potential for an extended look. He views this as a dream opportunity, a chance to learn from seasoned veterans. "You know, now being here, I look at it as a big opportunity to learn. You've got guys that have been there and done that. They have illustrious careers, and you don't stay in this game that long unless you're doing the right things."
And this is the part most people miss: The Royals are also navigating the new ABS challenge system. Pitching coach Brian Sweeney offered his perspective, suggesting pitchers should defer to the home plate umpire. "I don't think pitchers should challenge any call," Sweeney stated. "Let the guy behind the plate... who has the feel for it. I'm sure we are going to see it over there right away. ... It's a process that we are trying to understand. And talking with R&D and the guys in the minor leagues that have used it before, it's, OK, when do we use our challenges and who calls them?"
The pitching depth is also being closely examined, particularly with pitchers like Avila and Falter. The Royals still see starter potential in Avila, but there's a growing sentiment that he could be an immediate asset as a reliever, especially given his improved stuff and devastating curveball in that role last year. Falter, with no options remaining, presents a different kind of decision. Despite a challenging year in the bullpen that ended on the injured list, he could still emerge as another valuable lefty option.
Jac Caglianone has been diligently working on his swing decisions this offseason, recognizing that he was often his own worst enemy. He aims to be better prepared for Major League-level pitching, acknowledging the unique challenge of "strike-to-ball" pitches that can deceive hitters. "One of the biggest things I took away from last year was these guys are really good at throwing strike-to-ball pitches," Caglianone explained. "Out of the hand, it looks really good, and it ends up being a 58-foot curveball."
In other news, the Royals community mourns the passing of former pitching coach Gary Blaylock, who died at the age of 94. On the player movement front, former Royals outfielder Mark Canha has signed a minor league deal with the Rangers, and infielder Cavan Biggio has joined the Astros on a similar agreement.
Across the league, Bryce Harper is reportedly displeased with Phillies management over comments suggesting he's not an elite player. Meanwhile, Jasson Domínguez faces questions about his role with the New York Yankees.
Your song of the day is Blondie with 'Sunday Girl.'
What are your thoughts on Kris Bubic's potential for an All-Star return? Do you agree with Brian Sweeney's take on the ABS challenge system? Let us know in the comments below!
