Sam Long DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

Kansas City Royals left-hander Sam Long (hand) returned to Cactus League action on Wednesday versus the Seattle Mariners and threw a scoreless inning while giving up one hit, walking none and striking out none. It was Long's third outing of spring training but his first since he was hit by a line drive on his left hand on March 3. The 29-year-old southpaw thankfully avoided a break in his hand and will be ready for the start of the 2025 regular season, although he's not guaranteed a spot in the Opening Day bullpen out of camp. The former 18th-round selection by the Tampa Bay Rays in 2016 out of California State University of Sacramento has four years of major-league experience and posted a career-low 3.16 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, one save, a career-high 44 strikeouts and 17 walks in 42 2/3 relief innings for KC in 2024.

Kansas City Royals left-handed pitcher Sam Long (hand) threw a bullpen session on Thursday. Long was hit by a line drive on Monday but avoided any serious injuries. While his hand was still sore, the southpaw was able to throw his first session, which was a positive sign. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor his status as the team may opt to move him through a slower progression. If he faces any delays in his recovery, he could be in danger of missing Opening Day. Last season, the 29-year-old posted a solid 3.16 ERA with a 1.20 WHIP across 42 2/3 innings of relief. He tallied 44 strikeouts with one save. When healthy, he will compete for a middle relief role in the bullpen.