[KChiefs1]

The rookies most likely to make each American League team out of spring training

Kansas City Royals

Jackson Kowar is probably the rookie most likely to make the Royals out of spring training, because he’s got the ability to impact their bullpen right out of the chute. Kowar’s fastball-changeup combination is deadly and the fact he can control both pitches makes him major-league ready. His changeup is a legitimate wipeout pitch and one of the best in the game. His fastball is in the mid-90s and there is a 10 mph differential between the two offerings. He also has an average curveball he can mix in.

Daniel Lynch is the Royals rookie starting pitcher closest to the major leagues, but he’ll probably begin the year in Triple A. However, don’t sleep on him making the team if he’s able to put together a dominant spring training. Lynch has a 97 mph fastball to go along with an above-average slider and changeup with the curveball being his fourth pitch. He’s made a lot of progress at the alternate site in terms of improving his mechanics which should lead to improved command — and that will be the key to him making the team out of spring training.