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Leonard Triumphs: From Draft Risk to Royals Star Pitcher

2/19/2026

25 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

In the 1972 draft, the Kansas City Royals selected Leonard despite arm injury concerns.
He advanced through the minors and reached Omaha in three seasons.
In 1974, Leonard appeared briefly in the majors and posted a 5.32 ERA.
Under pitching coach Galen Cisco, Leonard improved and finished 15–7, earning the Royals Pitcher of the Year award, which he would win three times.

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Story summary

In the 1972 draft, the Kansas City Royals selected Leonard despite arm injury concerns.
He advanced through the minors and reached Omaha in three seasons.
In 1974, Leonard appeared briefly in the majors and posted a 5.32 ERA.
Under pitching coach Galen Cisco, Leonard improved and finished 15–7, earning the Royals Pitcher of the Year award, which he would win three times.