Francisley Bueno

Bueno had an up-and-down 2014 campaign, as a finger injury kept him out of action for most of April and May. He eventually made his return, but turned in mixed results as a middle reliever. A 2.93 July ERA was respectable, but the 33-year-old lefty had a rocky August (10.57 ERA) before settling down in September with four straight scoreless appearances. Pitching in one of MLB's best bullpens, there was simply little room for the veteran to showcase his skill set in high leverage situations. Bueno had a below-average 5.6 K/9 rate in 2014, and considering that the Royals were willing to designate him for assignment once last season, his role heading into 2015 is a bit uncertain. If he performs well, there should be a spot in middle relief for him, but should he struggle, Bueno may be deemed expendable in order to allow their younger pitchers an opportunity to contribute.