Can Royals Bullpen Fix Late-Inning Issues Before the Playoffs?
Sportsgrid Staff
Host · Writer
Can the Royals Fix Their Bullpen in Time for October?
As Kansas City sits on the verge of a postseason berth for the first time since 2015, their bullpen remains the biggest question mark. Despite an offense led by stars like Bobby Witt Jr. and Hunter Renfroe, the Royals' bullpen ranks among the worst in MLB, with late-inning collapses a recurring theme. With James McArthur, Chris Stratton, and Lucas Erceg struggling to hold leads, Kansas City’s postseason hopes hinge on whether their relievers can find consistency. If not, the Royals’ October run may be shorter than expected.
Royals Futures at FanDuel
Win World Series: +2900
Win ALCS: +1100
Win AL Central: +650
88.5 Reg. Season Wins: Over +150 | Under -198
Kansas City Royals’ Bullpen Struggles in the Postseason Race
The Kansas City Royals showcased both the strengths and weaknesses of their team during Monday’s loss to the New York Yankees. While Bobby Witt Jr. and Hunter Renfroe continued to ignite the offense, the bullpen crumbled late, surrendering seven runs in the final two innings. Despite leading 4-3 in the seventh inning, relievers James McArthur and Chris Stratton couldn’t hold off the Yankees, leading to a 10-4 loss. This game exemplifies the bullpen issues that have plagued Kansas City all season, with a 4.54 bullpen ERA ranking 25th in MLB.
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Late-Inning Collapse: McArthur and Stratton Struggle
The Royals’ bullpen issues were on full display as James McArthur and Chris Stratton combined to give up seven runs in two innings. McArthur, who didn’t record an out against the Yankees, allowed three hits, including a three-run homer by Austin Wells, pushing his ERA to 5.01. Stratton followed up by allowing three more runs in the eighth inning, pushing his recent ERA to 9.45 over the last seven games. With the postseason looming, these late-game meltdowns raise serious concerns for the Royals.
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Lucas Erceg: A Trade Deadline Acquisition Still Searching for Consistency
Lucas Erceg was brought in during the trade deadline to help fortify the Royals’ bullpen, but his recent struggles have Royals fans worried. Over his last seven appearances, Erceg has posted a 10.50 ERA, adding to Kansas City’s late-inning woes. Despite not pitching in Monday’s game, his recent form highlights the ongoing concerns about the bullpen’s ability to hold leads as the Royals make their postseason push. If Kansas City hopes to make a deep playoff run, they will need more stability from Erceg and the rest of the relief corps.
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Injuries Compound the Royals’ Bullpen Problems
In addition to performance issues, the Royals’ bullpen has been hampered by injuries to key relievers Hunter Harvey and Will Smith, both sidelined with back issues. With the postseason rapidly approaching, it’s uncertain whether these relievers will be available in time to help Kansas City solidify their late-game pitching. Their return could provide much-needed depth and options for manager Matt Quatraro as he navigates the team’s bullpen woes heading into October.
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Can the Royals Fix Their Bullpen in Time for October?
As Kansas City sits on the verge of a postseason berth for the first time since 2015, their bullpen remains the biggest question mark. Despite an offense led by stars like Bobby Witt Jr. and Hunter Renfroe, the Royals' bullpen ranks among the worst in MLB, with late-inning collapses a recurring theme. With James McArthur, Chris Stratton, and Lucas Erceg struggling to hold leads, Kansas City’s postseason hopes hinge on whether their relievers can find consistency. If not, the Royals’ October run may be shorter than expected.
Royals Futures at FanDuel
Win World Series: +2900
Win ALCS: +1100
Win AL Central: +650
88.5 Reg. Season Wins: Over +150 | Under -198
Kansas City Royals’ Bullpen Struggles in the Postseason Race
The Kansas City Royals showcased both the strengths and weaknesses of their team during Monday’s loss to the New York Yankees. While Bobby Witt Jr. and Hunter Renfroe continued to ignite the offense, the bullpen crumbled late, surrendering seven runs in the final two innings. Despite leading 4-3 in the seventh inning, relievers James McArthur and Chris Stratton couldn’t hold off the Yankees, leading to a 10-4 loss. This game exemplifies the bullpen issues that have plagued Kansas City all season, with a 4.54 bullpen ERA ranking 25th in MLB.
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