Heath Fillmyer did not start his career as a Kansas City Royals pitcher. Instead, after being drafted and developed by the Oakland Athletics, the 24-year-old was shipped to Kansas City (along with Jesse Hahn) in exchange for Ryan Butcher, Brandon Moss, and cash considerations.
The right-hander was ranked as just the 18th best prospect in the A’s system, but he quickly made the big leagues on the Royals. After posting a mediocre 5.75 ERA and 4.64 FIP in Triple-A Omaha, the righty was called up to the majors on July 19.