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

With a number of position battles still underway in the NL West, extra spring training reps for competing players may be the difference between a regular role in the show and a possible trip back to the minors.
Mar 7 2026 3:10am
It's time for the World Baseball Classic; who will see more playing time while players represent their countries in the tournament?
Mar 6 2026 3:05am
Sal Perez's absence for the WBC could mean it's Carter Jensen's time to shine in Royals camp. Plus, looks at WBC impacts on all AL Central rosters.
Mar 5 2026 3:10am
With players leaving camp to play in the WBC, who could gain some playing time increases in the AL West?
Mar 4 2026 3:10am
A rejuvenated Eloy Jiménez has stood out in early Grapefruit League action and should continue to get at-bats with many Toronto regulars playing in the WBC. Plus, more WBC fallout from around the division.
Mar 3 2026 3:03am

Tools