Royals Spring Training: Pitchers in Focus
Spring Training is the time for pitchers to unveil their latest tweaks, and this year in Surprise, Arizona, the Royals' camp is buzzing with intriguing developments. From new grips to refined deliveries, let's dive into how these changes might shape the pitching staff in 2026.
Seth Lugo: Master of Reinvention
Seth Lugo continues to be the crafty veteran we know, always experimenting to stay ahead. At 36, Lugo's spring debut showcased a slider with a bit more bite-clocking in at an average of 85.6 mph, up 2.4 mph from last year.
Cubs batters swung at it four times and missed every single one. Talk about making an impression!
Lugo, ever the enigma, kept details under wraps but hinted at a new grip and mindset. This slider could be a game-changer, adding another layer of complexity for hitters facing him.
Daniel Lynch IV: Velocity on the Rise
Daniel Lynch IV is generating buzz with increased velocity. In a scoreless inning, Lynch’s fastball averaged 95.5 mph, up from 94.1 mph last season. Although Reds hitters made contact, the Royals are optimistic about this uptick.
Lynch credits his offseason work on refining his delivery. By keeping his glove arm strong and level, he maximizes energy transfer and consistency in his pitches. It's all about those fine details that prevent tipping pitches to the opposition.
Luinder Avila: Expanding the Arsenal
Luinder Avila is already known for his wicked curveball, but now he's adding a slider to his repertoire. Having learned this pitch late last season, Avila aims for a velocity of 88-90 mph. Conversations with successful slider pitchers have informed his approach, focusing on grip and execution.
Avila's role is still up in the air-starter in Triple-A or a reliever on the Opening Day roster. Either way, the slider could be a valuable tool in his arsenal.
John Schreiber: Perfecting the Kick-Changeup
John Schreiber is refining a kick-changeup, a pitch he introduced last season. With a solid 3.80 ERA, Schreiber is a reliable option for the Royals in various situations, but he needs to improve against left-handed batters, who posted a .754 OPS against him.
The kick-changeup could be the answer, offering vertical movement to complement his existing pitch mix of fastballs and cutters. Schreiber’s goal is to be the go-to guy, no matter who's stepping up to the plate.
As Spring Training progresses, these pitchers are making adjustments that could prove pivotal for the Royals this season. With each tweak and new pitch, they're setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting year on the mound.