Spring training battles: The bullpen

Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty ImagesWe are already in the last week of spring training games, with the Royals scheduled to open the season on April 1 against the Texas Rangers. The bench battle has become a bit clearer with players like Bobby Witt, Jr., Edward Olivares, and Meibrys Viloria optioned to the minors. Mike Matheny set his rotation with Brad Keller to start Opening Day, followed by Mike Minor, Brady Singer, and Danny Duffy. Kris Bubic was optioned down, but he seems likely to return in mid-April when the Royals will need a fifth starter.

That leaves the bullpen with a few spots left to be won in camp. If the Royals begin with a four-man rotation, that means they’ll likely have…