KC Royals will start ‘super focused’ Daniel Lynch IV in spring training opener

The Kansas City Royals will get a closer look at pitcher Daniel Lynch IV on Friday. Lynch will start against the Texas Rangers in the Cactus League opener at Surprise Stadium in Surprise, Arizona.

The game is slated for 2:05 p.m. CT on Friday.

Lynch, 27, dealt with a left shoulder strain last season. He was placed on the 15-day injured list last July and missed the remainder of the year. This offseason, Lynch continued to rehab his shoulder.

He pitched in the Arizona Fall League and the Dominican Winter League. The hard work has continued in Royals camp.

Royals manager Matt Quatraro has been impressed with Lynch’s spring thus far.

“The impressions were great,” Quatraro said. “Even going back to how he handled the injury last year, going to winter ball and really working on things, he really embraced it. … Coming in here, he has been super focused.”

The Royals are building Lynch up as a starter. There is competition within the starting rotation as the Royals have increased their pitching depth across the board. The projected starting rotation will include Cole Ragans, Seth Lugo, Michael Wacha and Brady Singer.

The fifth rotation spot could be available. Currently, Jordan Lyles is a front-runner for the spot alongside Lynch, Alec Marsh and Angel Zerpa. The increased competition this spring could determine which pitcher lands the rotation spot.

Lynch will have a chance to make his case on Friday. The Royals will work in multiple pitchers against the Rangers throughout the game.

“You know it’s good to have depth,” Quatraro said, “and have the competition going.”