Bad News for Bueno, Peguero as Royals Claim Schuster

Lefty Patrick Schuster, the top pick in the Rule 5 draft this offseason by the Houston Astros and was then was traded to the San Diego Padres, was claimed by the Royals according to MLB Trade Rumors. With the feeling that Francisley Bueno had sealed up the final spot in the bullpen currently the top story on Royals.com, this comes as a bit of a surprise.

A 13th round pick by Arizona in the 2009 draft, the 23-year old Schuster has not pitched above High Class-A so far. He did impress in 2013 for Visalia, however. In 44.1 innings over 55 relief appearances last season, the Florida native posted a 1.83 ERA and held both lefties and righties under a .200 BAA while striking out 25.6% of the hitters he faced. While his first half (1.08 ERA in 29 appearances) was slightly better than the second half, he did not allow an earned run in his final 14 appearances.

This spring, Schuster allowed 2 earned runs on 11 hits in eight innings spread over eight appearances, good for a .333 BAA. Of course, Schuster must prove himself worthy of a roster spot for the duration of the season, or the Royals will have to place him back on waivers and offer him back to the Diamondbacks.

Update: In related news, the club has traded catcher Adam Moore to the Padres and Designated Carlos Peguero for Assignment.