MLB Trade Deadline Preview: American League Central

By David Hill | Jun 11, 2017

Jun 9, 2017; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Indians designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion (22) is congratulated by manager Terry Francona (left) and teammates after hitting a two run home run against the Chicago White Sox in the fifth inning at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /

Kansas City Royals: Young pitching

The Kansas City Royals are refusing to wave the white flag on the 2017 season. However, unless a lot changes, it is time to focus on the future.

With a great deal of their roster set for free agency after this season, and their struggles all year, it makes sense for the Royals to sell. They would certainly have players that would be of interest to contending teams. Jason Vargas has been one of the best pitchers in the game this year, while Lorenzo Cain, Mike Moustakas, and Eric Hosmer would all have tremendous value as possible upgrades around the game.

Those pieces could give the Royals what they desperately need – young pitching. Despite sending quite a few high draft picks on arms, the results have been disastrous. Kyle Zimmer is an injury waiting to happen, and one has to wonder if he will ever reach the majors. Eric Skoglund and Josh Staumont are their top pitching prospects, but may be back of the rotation starters at best.

A team that desperately misses Yordano Ventura, the Royals need that young arm to pair with Danny Duffy. While the farm system itself is uncharacteristically barren, the Royals have the pieces to change that in a hurry. In doing so, they may be looking to open another window of contention, albeit with a vastly different look than the team they had in 2014 through 2016.

The Kansas City Royals could be one of the more interesting teams at the MLB trade deadline. They just need to make the right decision.

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