PT TOMORROW: AL Central—Speculating on saves in the KC bullpen

Kansas City Royals

It has been a week since the trade of closer Kelvin Herrera to the Nationals, and Royals manager Ned Yost has shied away from naming a full-time replacement; instead, it appears for now he'll go with a committee approach to the 9th inning. But that arrangement seems unlikely to stick long-term, as Yost has preferred a pretty well-structured bullpen in the past. So who are the candidates for the job, and which guys have the skills necessary to win it?

The first post-Herrera save opportunity went to Tim Hill (LHP, KC), and he converted it successfully. It was the first career save for the 28-year-old rookie, whose Leverage Index sits at 1.00 for the season. With a 4.56 ERA, he appears to be an unlikely choice, but his...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

We take a look at the closer situation in Arizona and potential prospect call-ups in Colorado and San Francisco, among other veterans throughout the NL West.
Aug 1 2026 3:06am
Alex Lange's days as the KC closer might be numbered. Plus, a look at the catching situation in CHW, Logan Allen improving in CLE, two hot young hitters in DET, and possible bullpen changes in MIN.
Jul 30 2026 3:05am
LaMonte Wade Jr. is not swinging it well, and a change should be coming in Houston.
Jul 29 2026 3:07am
Connor Wong is one of several AL East catchers whose playing time outlook could be altered as teams seek upgrades at the trade deadline. Plus, a potential rotation upheaval in TOR, and Encarnacion-Strand emerging in BAL.
Jul 28 2026 3:05am

Tools