The Royals' Strategic Move: Leveraging Michael Lombardi's Competitive Spirit
In a strategic move that showcases their commitment to athleticism, the Royals made a bold decision in the 2025 draft, selecting high school players Sean Gamble and Josh Hammond with their top two picks. Their third selection was Tulane's Michael Lombardi, a two-way player who will be developed as a starting pitcher, despite his experience working from the bullpen in college.
The pre-draft concerns about Lombardi centered around his durability and the development of a third pitch to complement his fastball and curveball. However, the Royals' scouting staff, led by Brian Bridges, had been closely monitoring Lombardi since the 2024 fall ball season. Area scout Cody Clark, along with vice president of player personnel Lonnie Goldberg, national scouting supervisor Sean Rooney, and special assistant Tom McNamara, all played a crucial role in evaluating Lombardi throughout the 2025 season.
Despite Lombardi's initial role as a bullpen worker and productive outfielder, the Royals firmly believed in his potential as a starting pitcher. This belief was rooted in Lombardi's highly competitive nature, as described by Bridges: "You're dealing with an athlete who's highly competitive, a two-way player who wants to concentrate on pitching, with limited mileage on the arm, athletic and feel to pitch."
By focusing solely on pitching, Lombardi can continue to refine his skills and make the necessary improvements. While he didn't frequently use his changeup in college, Bridges noted that Lombardi possesses a natural feel for the pitch, which can be developed into an average offering. This emphasis on pitching aligns with the Royals' strategy to maximize Lombardi's potential.
Moreover, Lombardi's outstanding makeup is another key attribute that caught the attention of the Royals' scouts and player development staff. As Bridges observed, "He wants to be successful. He's a good learner... a highly competitive kid who wants to succeed."
The Royals' decision to bet on Michael Lombardi's competitive nature is a testament to their forward-thinking approach to player development. By recognizing and nurturing his competitive spirit, the Royals aim to unlock Lombardi's full potential, shaping him into a formidable force on the mound.
