Kansas City Royals: Potential Second Base Options
By Jason Reed
Christian Colon
The Kansas City Royals likely aren’t pleased with how the former first-round pick is performing, but that does not mean he cannot improve. Colon saw himself burst onto the MLB scene in 2014, and was a key factor in the Royals’ World Series victory. He produced a pinch-hit RBI single in extra innings to give the Royals the lead and eventual World Series victory. Colon was loved in Kansas City, and in small sample sizes he was living up to his name. However, in 2016, Colon struggled and saw himself spending more time in AAA.
In 2014 Colon batted .333, and in 2015 he batted .290. Although each year had a small sample size, 45 and 107 at-bats respectively, Colon was showing the promise Royals fans hoped he would after being selected fourth overall. In 2016 Colon appeared in 54 games, batting a measly .231. He struck out 31 times compared to his 34 hits, only managing 11 walks. Colon struggled in MLB, and didn’t thrive in AAA. He did do better, batting .273 with only 11 strikeouts, but still didn’t impress too much.
While Colon has shown the ability to produce in high-leverage situations and be a dynamic player, he might be too big of a gamble to start at second. The Royals may send him to AAA, but more likely they will keep him up to serve in a utility role. If Colon can produce to his potential in the chances he does get, he will undoubtedly be the second baseman for the Royals next season. However, as of now, that is just a gamble.