The KC Royals sent left-handed pitchers Gabe Speier and Foster Griffin packing from their major league spring training camp last month. Their demotions to Omaha, a brand new pitching rule and the Cactus League performances of other southpaws may have them wondering about their Royal futures.
Griffin was the first to go. The Royals optioned him March 10 after he gave up a run on two hits in a split-squad game against the A’s. Although he didn’t walk anyone and struck out four, the outing left him with a 7.94 ERA in four spring games.