Kansas City Royals Jorge Bonifacio suspended for failed PED test
The Kansas City Royals have one more outfield opening, as Jorge Bonifacio was suspended 80 games for a failed PED test.
Jorge Bonifacio was expected to be a key part of the Kansas City Royals lineup heading into the 2018 campaign. The young outfielder was the likely option to be the Royals Opening Day starter in right, looking to build off of a promising rookie campaign last year. After years of right field being a revolving door, Kansas City seemed as though they found stability for the foreseeable future.
Instead, right field has become a question mark. The promising Bonifacio was suspended for 80 games on Saturday, failing a PED test, testing positive for Boldenone. His suspension will begin at the start of the year, leaving Bonifacio ineligible to return until June 29.
MLB announces #Royals outfielder Jorge Bonifacio 80-game suspension without pay after testing positive for Boldenone. Suspension will commence at the start of the 2018 regular season.
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) March 10, 2018
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This news leaves a hole in the Royals lineup. Although Bonifacio was projected to hit in the bottom third of the lineup, his power potential and solid performance last year led to the possibility that he could move into the middle of the lineup at some point. Last year, Bonifacio produced a solid .255/.340/.432 batting line, hitting 17 homers. As he continues to get acclimated to the majors, the hope was that he could develop into a real power threat in Kansas City.
The Royals depth will be tested in the early going. Jorge Soler may well get the first look in right, with Paulo Orlando and non roster invitees Michael Saunders and Tyler Collins likely to get an opportunity.
It is also possible that the Royals could take a look in free agency to fill this hole in the roster. After all, they have been active, signing potential bargains in Mike Moustakas and Jon Jay. Another move to bring in an outfielder would not be outside the realm of possibility, especially if there is a low cost option that can help improve the roster.
Next: Royals top ten prospects
The Kansas City Royals will be without Jorge Bonifacio for the start of the 2018 campaign. Fortunately for the Royals, they have plenty of options available to fill the gap.