Fans should embrace Jordan Lyles for the pitcher he is



Last season, the rotation in Kansas City faced challenges, but it wasn't deemed awful. However, the upcoming season presents a different narrative with the noteworthy additions of Seth Lugo and Michael Wacha. As the team approaches the season, the rotation appears solid in the top four spots. Typically, the fifth spot in the rotation is not expected to be a shutdown position, but Kansas City has a reliable starter in Jordan Lyles.
At the outset of this article, I highlighted the impactful signings of Michael Wacha and Seth Lugo, deeming them fantastic. Despite their history of not going deep into games, my expectations for Lugo's innings this season range between 140 to 150. While I hope for more, I'm not overly optimistic. Similarly, I don't anticipate Wacha being an inning eater for Kansas City, but I'm optimistic about 175-180 innings if he stays healthy. For both Ragans and Singer, I foresee them throwing between 180-185 innings, with Ragans potentially becoming a future workhorse for the Royals.
The competition for the fourth spot in the rotation remains uncertain, with Lynch, Marsh, and possibly Angel Zerpa in contention. The fifth spot is Jordan Lyles's, irrespective of his performance in spring training. The Royals signed Lyles to a two-year deal worth $17 million in December 2022, and he's entering the final year of the contract. Despite potential alternatives, Lyles remains a crucial piece of the rotation until other pitchers establish themselves as reliable workhorses.
create competition for rotation spots. Picollo highlighted Lyles's ability to handle a heavy workload, emphasizing his role as an inning eater, not a lockdown starter. A further statement in a 2022 USA Today interview reinforced the organization's belief in Lyles contributing significant innings.
While Lyles may not boast stellar stats in 2024, he's expected to lead the team in innings pitched. His role becomes even more crucial to alleviate pressure on Kris Bubic, recovering from Tommy John surgery and unlikely to pitch in the big leagues this season. Regardless of the criticism from fans, Lyles secures the fifth spot in 2024. Fans should redirect their focus from the negativity surrounding Lyles and appreciate the strengths of the rotation and pitching staff as a whole.






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