The 2018 campaign was a difficult one for the Kansas City Royals. However, they have a bright future, based on the players in their farm system. Who are some of the under the radar prospects to keep an eye on next year?
While Kansas City Royals fans knew that 2018 would be a difficult year, it was impossible to see this coming. They struggled out of the gate, swiftly becoming one of the worst teams in the game. As recently as a month ago, the Royals were battling the Orioles for the worst record in the game, fighting for the first overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft.
Over their past 20 games, the Royals have showed signs of life. Heading into Sunday, Kansas City was 14-6 during that span, as the youngsters were showing signs of promise. Jakob Junis has turned his season around, and Brad Keller has emerged as a dark horse candidate for the AL Rookie of the Year award. Adalberto Mondesi is showing that Royals shortstops can actually produce offensively, and has pushed Alcides Escobar to the bench. Brett Phillips has started to make the fanbase dream of another Lorenzo Cain. There are certainly pieces in Kansas City.
While there is a core in place, the Royals need other pieces. Players like Nick Pratto, Seuly Matias, and Daniel Lynch have grabbed the imagination, but there are other pieces needed. Sometimes, those players fly under the radar until they reach the majors, much like Whit Merrifield has for the Royals.
Who are some of those under the radar prospects for the Kansas City Royals? Let’s take a look through their system and find out.