KANSAS CITY -- Left-hander Brian Flynn, acquired after the 2014 season from the Marlins, will make his first start for the Royals on Tuesday night against the Indians, manager Ned Yost said.
And Flynn is eager to prove he's much more mature than his last start in the big leagues -- that was in August 2014, when Flynn gave up eight hits and five runs over four innings for Miami in a loss to the Pirates.
"I remember them all," Flynn said of his previous five big league starts. "But it's been a long time, especially with the injury [he missed virtually all of 2015 with a lat injury] and everything, long time since I've had a start. Matured a lot since then. Really ready for it."
What's changed in his approach since 2014?
"It's just not getting too caught up in the bright lights," Flynn said. "I think my first stint up with Miami, I was a little caught up with everything, the guys in the [batter's] box, just everything about it. The biggest thing has been proving to myself that I can pitch up here, that my stuff plays.
"Being able to just play and enjoy it again has been huge for me. Just treating it like a game ... I'm ready to go."
The Royals have been trying to solve the fifth starter puzzle all season, but so far Chris Young and Dillon Gee have not been able to claim that spot. Now it's Flynn's turn.
"Ever since we've kinda had a spot shuffling around, I've been hopeful to get a shot at it," Flynn said. "I feel like I can help the team as a starter."
Why did Yost choose Flynn?
"We know what Chris Young can do and we know what Dillon Gee can do," Yost said. "We want to see what Brian can do."
Flynn will be on a 60-70 pitch limit.