Victor Marte

Marte is a heavy set (listed at 265 pounds) right-handed relief pitcher with a power arm. He finished the season with the Royals, displaying better command than he did in Japan during the 2008 season, and he is on their 40-man roster. Marte has been called "effectively wild" at times because he keeps hitters loose in the box. He gets good action on the ball and relies mostly on a high-90s fastball. He could close games eventually if he proves he can command his pitches and get guys out. Look for him in the Royals' bullpen this season, but not in a high-profile role. He should be considered a very, very low probability "wild card" to close out games in Kansas City if anything happens to Joakim Soria this season.