The Kansas City Royals would be wise to start selling the best veteran pieces on their roster. Who on the roster can we expect to find a new home in 2017?
The Kansas City Royals trade block is going to fill up this year. A big reason for this is that the 2015 champions have multiple guys on expiring contracts. They also have a couple of arbitration eligible players due for raises along with younger ones previously extended. Those in the latter category will see their salaries increase, too.
As a small market squad, the Royals cannot get away with continuing on the road they’re driving down. They have spent a lot of money on this team which right now does not look very good.
Fortunately, the Royals have plenty to offer the rest of the league as they attempt to get back into contention. Many of the members from their championship starting lineup are trade options now. Due to the abundance, just about every contending team in baseball will find something at this yard sale the Royals will host in July.
The Royals have yet to fully commit to winning or losing next year. By signing Brandon Moss, it may look like they are interested in competing. However, they previously moved on from Kendrys Morales and Edinson Volquez without fully replacing either. It’s possible the Royals are putting their focus on the 2018 or 2019 season and adding a few pieces for then before it gets too late. After all, several of their overpayments will extend through those seasons.
We should see the Royals as one of the game’s most active trade deadline teams this summer. Unlike in years past where they added Johnny Cueto and Ben Zobrist, this time we will see them sell off the goods they have. It’s an important step for the Royals even if it is a backward one. Rebuilding the farm can put them in position to enter the upcoming years fully loaded with talent. Within a few years, they might be ready to add another championship. It all starts with attempting to trade these players.