The Kansas City Royals are still trying to find an answer at first base.
Since Eric Hosmer left in free agency, the Kansas City Royals have been trying to find an answer at first base. Lucas Duda was signed to a one year deal last season before he was traded, opening the door for Ryan O’Hearn. However, O’Hearn struggled this season, and does not look like the answer as well.
With Jorge Bonifacio ready to return, the Royals had seen enough of O’Hearn for now. He has been optioned back to AAA, where he will look to get back on track.
We have recalled OF Jorge Bonifacio and optioned 1B Ryan O’Hearn to Omaha. #Royals
— Kansas City Royals (@Royals) June 14, 2019
After a surprising 2018 where O’Hearn looked like a possible solution, he fell flat this year. Prior to being sent to Omaha, he posted a .188/.286/.333 batting line, hitting just six homers and seven doubles in 213 plate appearances.
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Eventually, the expected answer at first, Nick Pratto, should arrive in the majors. However, he has struggled mightily this season in high-A, posting a horrid .157/.259/.210 batting line, with just one homer and eight doubles in 239 plate appearances. Pratto has drawn 27 walks, but also struck out 85 times.
The Royals certainly hope that Pratto can shake these struggles off, and that he can remain the first baseman of the future, the present is not exactly glowing. Cheslor Cuthbert could get a look at first once Hunter Dozier returns from the Injured List. Duda could get another look. Or, the Royals could try another stopgap.
As it is, the Royals find themselves looking for an answer at first. It is possible that one of these options will emerge from the rest of the group, and become an answer at first. Or, the Royals could end up with a revolving door at the position until either Pratto gets to the majors, or another prospect takes their place as the first baseman of the future.
The Kansas City Royals do not have an answer at first. That may not change for some time.