Royals Add An Ace

Even though the Royals continue to pace the A.L. with a 62-42 record, there is still an area that needs to be polished. Kansas City has leaned on its batting and bullpen to defeat opponents. As a team, they currently rank tenth in runs scored (449), fourth in batting average (.269), and seventh in stolen bases (65). Their lights out bullpen ranks first in ERA (2.33) and holds opponents to the second lowest average (.211). Even the best teams have glaring weaknesses, and that weakness is starting pitching for the Royals. There starters have compiled a mediocure 4.36 ERA, which is twenty second in the majors. The Royals addressed this need by acquiring Cincinnati Reds starter Johnny Cueto. The Royals shipped minor leaguers Brandon Finnegan, John Lamb, and Cody Reed for Cueto. Despite being on a struggling Reds Team, Cueto has boasted a 7-6 record, a 2.62 ERA, has struck out 120 batters, and has held opponents to a stifling .196 batting average. Kansas City rotation has taken a huge setback from last season. Following the loss of right-hander James Shields, the Royals have failed to find consistency in their rotation. While Southpaw Jason Vargas is currently on the disable list, right handers Yorando Ventura (5-6, 4.98 ERA) and Jeremy Guthrie (7-7, 5.65 ERA) have failed to meet expectations at the mound. Both Guthrie and Ventura came into this month with a negative WAR (Wins Above Replacement). Cueto will bring consistency and fire-power to a vulnerable Royals rotation. Cueto will also be able to form a 1-2 punch with his former Cincinnati teammate, Edison Volquez (10-6, 3.20 ERA). The addition of Cueto gives the Royals extra juice for a potential playoff run.