Philadelphia Phillies: Possible Maikel Franco Trade Destinations
By Tim Boyle
Kansas City Royals
As each day passes, it looks less likely that the Kansas City Royals will re-sign Eric Hosmer, Lorenzo Cain, and the man Franco could replace, third baseman Mike Moustakas. All three deserve lots of money and that’s just not something the Royals can afford to give each of them.
If Moustakas walks, Franco is a cheaper option the Royals can try to build with. He’ll certainly give them power and can also fill in at first base when needed.
The Royals already have big dollars committed to Alex Gordon and Ian Kennedy. It’s important they find bargains wherever they can. A cast-off like Franco who still has a lot of potential might be the perfect fit for a franchise that still has a chance to compete.
No one should expect the Royals to make any move for a top-level third baseman other than Moustakas. Since he is probably the best one available, I expect someone else will pay him far more. Players like Franco with the arbitration years just beginning are better candidates.
The idea of Franco playing in the American League is also good when considering his defense. Although he’s not a complete disaster in the field, he’s more of a part-time DH than he is an everyday position player.