Kowar allowed a run of three hits and struck out four over two innings in Sunday's 11-10 win over the Diamondbacks.
The decrease in walks is the most encouraging takeaway here -- Kowar issued 20 free passes in 30.1 major-league innings last season. He struggled to an 11.27 ERA and 2.08 WHIP with the Royals last season, but he posted a strong 3.46 ERA and 1.25 WHIP in 80.2 innings with Triple-A Omaha. Kowar is competing for a back-end spot in the rotation during spring training, though he may begin the year in Omaha if the Royals opt to carry five starters early on.