Brandon Duckworth

2013

There was no outlook written for Brandon Duckworth.

2008

Duckworth wasn't that bad throwing out of the bullpen before going down in June with a rib injury. The Royals tried to convert him back to a starter in his September return, but he ended up back in the bullpen after one start. He will most likely pitch out of middle relief in 2008, and does not get nearly enough strikeouts (he hasn't had more than 27 since 2003) and is too injury prone to be used as a staff filler.

2007

Duckworth's career was close to the end until he caught fire in spring training in 2006 and carried that success into the season at Triple-A Indianapolis. The Royals acquired him and placed him in the rotation. He had five quality starts in eight chances before moving to the pen and then to the disabled list with elbow problems, never to return. The Royals designated him for assignment in December, so he'll need to catch fire again for another major league job.

2006

Listed more as an ode to a memory, Duckworth has posted an ERA of 8.08 in 55 2/3 MLB innings the past two seasons. Triple-A batters hit .301 off him last year. If he pitches well in '06, it'd be a total shock.

2005

Somehow the words "disaster" and "Duckworth" fit together like "Clemens" and "Hall-of-Fame." Duckworth posted a career worst 6.86 ERA in 2004 and will have to fight for a spot on the major league roster come Opening Day. The window of opportunity in the major leagues for Duckworth seems to be dwindling, as the righty has failed to translate talent into success on the mound.

2004

A high strikeout rate in 2002 led many to hope that Duckworth's high ERA and WHIP disguised his true potential, but instead he followed up that season with an even more disappointing 2003. After starting the season with an elbow injury, Duckworth received fifth-starter treatment, pitched erratically and prompted the Phillies to shuttle him between the parent club and Triple-A Scranton. The trade to Houston might help in terms of Duckworth getting away from Phillies manager Larry Bowa, but that's a pretty thin limb to stand on.

2003

A promising rookie season in 2001 was followed by disappointment in 2002. He walked nearly four batters per game and allowed way too many home runs for his innings pitched (26 in 163.0 IP). A couple of good starts to close the season keeps him in their rotational plans for spring training, but he'll need to pitch well to secure his starting spot. He still has minor league options left, so that remains a possibility.