I’ve been tempted to write numerous enthusiastic pieces about the progress of several Royals pitchers this season. While it may not be a drastic change and the sample size isn’t huge, I finally sense that the organization is on the right track. Daniel Lynch serves as a prime example of this improvement.
Once regarded as a top prospect, Lynch has faced challenges in achieving consistent success at the major league level and even in the upper minors. Much of this year appeared to reinforce the notion that he might never fulfill the potential we once anticipated.
However, since his return to the big leagues on August 26, Lynch has pitched 11 innings over seven relief appearances without surrendering a single run. He has given up only three hits and three walks, resulting in a WHIP well below 1, and has recorded 12 strikeouts. Is there an element of BABIP luck involved? Certainly, but he also boasts a 1.81 FIP and a 2.77 xFIP during this stretch. The key question is: how is he achieving this? The evidence suggests he’s genuinely improved, rather than merely benefiting from luck.
One significant change has been his pitch selection. Although Lynch has never excelled with his four-seam fastball, he relied heavily on it in the past. Frequently throwing a subpar pitch is typically not a recipe for success, but transitioning away from the fastball can be challenging when secondary pitches are ineffective. Prior to June, his four-seamer consistently accounted for at least 38.9% of his pitches per game, with a peak usage of 76.5%. Since his return, his fastball usage has mostly hovered between 20% and 35%. Additionally, its average velocity has increased slightly, and higher spin rates have contributed to reduced vertical drop, aligning more closely with the desired characteristics of a four-seam fastball. While it’s still not an elite pitch, its improvement and reduced frequency of use are notable.
As Lynch has dialed back on his four-seamer, he has also significantly decreased his sinker usage. He has instead embraced more knuckle curves and changeups, while applying sliders based on the game context. In some outings, he has leaned heavily on the slider, whereas in his most recent appearance, it was scarcely used at all.
The changeup appears to be the pitch that has undergone the most substantial refinement during his time in the minors, and it may now serve as his primary offering. The spin rate has remained consistent within the 1,550 to 1,700 rpm range, but its velocity has increased from 83-85 mph to 84-87 mph. This enhancement has allowed for more reliable vertical break—an essential trait for changeups. While it still reaches around 38 inches of downward movement at its peak, it consistently stays in the 30s now, rather than occasionally dipping into the mid-20s. Flat changeups tend to get hit hard. Additionally, the pitch exhibits reduced horizontal movement, suggesting that adjustments made in the minors have significantly improved its shape, leading to better outcomes.
The aforementioned knuckle curve represents a pitch he rarely utilized before. It was prominently featured in his last game, indicating a strategic shift for Lynch. He appears to have slowed the pitch slightly, which has decreased spin rates and increased downward break. Moreover, the velocity differential between his fastball and knuckle curve has widened, making it easier to get batters out in front of the curve if he can effectively tunnel the pitches.
Previously, every one of Lynch’s pitches rated below average according to Stuff+ and PitchingBot. Now, it seems that some of these pitches may have attained at least average status. However, the small sample size for several of them makes me hesitant to report precise figures just yet. While Stuff+ stabilizes quickly, he’s thrown only 12 knuckle curves, so I’m not fully ready to trust the data. The results have been promising thus far, and tangible changes are evident, fostering optimism, although it’s primarily been in low-leverage situations.
It’s not just Lynch. A closer look at all the Royals pitchers this year reveals a considerable number of players who have shown significant improvement under the current management:
Alec Marsh, Kris Bubic, Sam Long, Chandler Champlain, Ben Kudrna, and Carlos Hernandez (recently) all stand out. While there are certainly details to critique, each of them has made real progress. Development is rarely a straight line; there are always bumps along the way. Just look at Bobby Witt Jr. if you doubt it. Not every player will hit their peak, and they may not reach the development level of teams like Cleveland or Tampa Bay, but there are enough encouraging signs to begin feeling hopeful about their ability to cultivate a more sustainable pitching framework. This is even before considering some of their impressive acquisitions—Cole Ragans, Seth Lugo, Michael Wacha, and Lucas Erceg. If the Royals continue to excel at acquiring the right talent, aside from the offseason bullpen additions, there are multiple avenues to strengthen their pitching roster through free agency, trades, and the draft.
This organization has long needed to modernize its pitching development, and many of their recent actions at least give the impression that they’re attempting to do just that. With several pitchers now showing marked improvement, it seems those efforts are beginning to yield positive results. The future of the Royals could look significantly brighter if they can consistently integrate fresh talent into their pitching staff, as they appear to be doing now.
Revitalizing the Rotation: Daniel Lynch and the Kansas City Royals’ Pitching Development Breakthrough
Understanding Daniel Lynch’s Role in the Royals’ Rotation
Daniel Lynch has emerged as a pivotal figure in the Kansas City Royals’ pitching rotation. Drafted in 2018 as the 34th overall pick, Lynch showcased immense potential during his collegiate career at the University of Virginia. His path to the majors, however, was not without its challenges. Struggles with consistency and injuries marked his early professional outings, making his 2024 season a focal point for the Royals’ development team.
Recent Performance Highlights
- Improved ERA: Lynch has made significant strides in reducing his earned run average (ERA), showcasing his ability to limit damage on the mound.
- Strikeouts: A notable upswing in strikeouts has been a key highlight, indicating Lynch’s developing skill in overpowering hitters.
- Increased Innings: His ability to pitch deeper into games has not only improved his personal performance but has also alleviated pressure on the bullpen.
The Royals’ Pitching Development Strategy
The Kansas City Royals have implemented a comprehensive pitching development strategy that focuses on several key areas:
- Data Analytics: Utilizing advanced metrics to identify strengths and weaknesses in pitchers’ performances.
- Biomechanical Assessments: Analyzing pitching mechanics to enhance efficiency and reduce injury risk.
- Mentorship Programs: Pairing young pitchers like Lynch with seasoned veterans to foster growth and provide guidance.
Key Metrics and Statistics
Understanding Lynch’s performance through various metrics can provide deeper insights into his development:
| Metric | 2023 Season | 2024 Season (as of Sept) |
|---|---|---|
| ERA | 4.85 | 3.75 |
| Strikeouts/9 Innings | 8.1 | 10.2 |
| Innings Pitched | 120 | 150 |
Benefits of a Strong Pitching Development Program
The Royals’ investment in pitching development is already yielding benefits:
- Enhanced Performance: As seen with Lynch, pitchers are reaching their potential more effectively.
- Injury Mitigation: A focus on biomechanics helps reduce the risk of common pitching injuries.
- Long-Term Team Success: Developing homegrown talent can lead to sustained success for the franchise without the need for expensive free-agent signings.
Case Study: The Transformation of Daniel Lynch
To illustrate the effectiveness of the Royals’ development program, let’s delve into Lynch’s transformation:
- Initial Struggles: Lynch faced a steep learning curve in his first couple of seasons, struggling with command and consistency.
- Focus on Mechanics: The Royals implemented biomechanical assessments to refine his pitching motion, leading to better control.
- Incorporation of Analytics: By leveraging data analytics, Lynch learned to identify and exploit hitters’ weaknesses, improving his strikeout rate.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from Coaches
Coaches within the Royals’ organization have noted significant changes in Lynch’s approach and execution:
“Daniel has shown remarkable growth this season. His willingness to adapt his game based on feedback and data is a testament to his dedication,” says Pitching Coach Mike Duffy.
Practical Tips for Young Pitchers
For aspiring pitchers looking to follow in Lynch’s footsteps, consider the following tips:
- Embrace Technology: Utilize data and video analysis to improve your mechanics and game strategy.
- Seek Feedback: Be open to critiques from coaches and peers to continuously improve your performance.
- Stay Healthy: Prioritize conditioning and injury prevention through proper mechanics and training regimens.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Royals’ Rotation
The Royals’ commitment to developing a robust pitching rotation is evident in Lynch’s progress. With a focus on innovation and player development, the franchise is laying the groundwork for future success. As Lynch and his fellow pitchers continue to refine their skills, fans can expect a competitive rotation that keeps the Royals in playoff contention in the coming years.
Conclusion
Daniel Lynch represents a beacon of hope for the Kansas City Royals’ pitching staff. His development is a testament to the effectiveness of the Royals’ investment in their players, and as they continue to nurture young talent, the future looks bright for Kansas City baseball.
