Danny Duffy

2013

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2012

Duffy made his big league debut in 2011, after spending the first month of the season at Triple-A Omaha. A starter, he had 87 strikeouts and 51 walks with a 5.64 ERA over 105.1 innings. Armed with a fastball that sits in the low-to-mid 90s, Duffy struck out over a batter per inning at nearly every stop in the minors, often with good control and command of his pitches. At the major league level he's going to need to rediscover that control as his walk rate was 4.36 BB/9IP in his rookie season. Only 23 years old, Duffy should be snapped up in keeper leagues and by those speculating for strikeouts in deeper leagues.

2011

Duffy made a bizarre departure from the Royals in March to "reassess his life priorities" before returning to the team three months later. Upon his return, Duffy was effective, posting a 2.74 ERA over 62.1 minor-league innings. The Royals plan to give him a chance to pitch his way into the Opening Day rotation this spring, but he's yet to pitch an inning above the Double-A level.

2010

Duffy is a left-handed starting pitcher with outstanding upside. His command and his ability to throw strikes set him apart from most prospects his age. He went 9-3 with a 2.98 ERA in High-A in last season and his 125:41 K:BB ratio over 126.2 innings pitched is excellent. Duffy was selected for the Futures Game and he should be considered an up-and-coming pitcher in the Royals' rotation. He must increase his stamina so he can get deeper than the fifth inning. It is likely he will spend 2010 between Double-A and Triple-A preparing for a debut as a starting pitcher late in the season or in 2011. Duffy should be considered in keeper leagues and is someone to watch very carefully.