Kansas City Royals make smart move by extending Hunter Dozier
It took far longer than it should have, but the Kansas City Royals came to the realization that they needed to focus on finding players that can get on base. Their offseason was geared towards that quest, as they added Carlos Santana and Andrew Benintendi to help improve the lineup. The Royals had several players that fit that mold as well, so they did not require a complete overhaul of their lineup.
On Sunday, Kansas City locked one of those players into a long term deal. Hunter Dozier has signed a four year, $25 million extension with a team option for 2025.
Third baseman Hunter Dozier and the Kansas City Royals are in agreement on a four-year, $25 million contract extension that includes a fifth-year option for $10 million, sources tell ESPN. Deal buys out two potential free agent years for the 29-year-old and starts this season.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) February 28, 2021
Hunter Dozier the type of player Kansas City Royals need
For the Royals, this was the perfect time to lock Dozier up. He had a somewhat disappointing .228/.344/.392 batting line in his 186 plate appearances, hitting six homers and four doubles. However, he still got on base at an impressive rate, drawing 27 walks.
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Dozier’s on base percentage stands out when looking at the Royals’ roster last season. As a whole, the Royals posted a .309 on base percentage, 12th in the Americal League. He led the team in walks and was second in OBP, trailing only Salvador Perez. However, as Perez drew just three walks all year, his mark was greatly fueled by his .333 batting average.
He also has the defensive versatility that the Royals covet. Dozier has seen time at first, third, and in right, allowing manager Mike Matheny the ability to plug him in wherever needed. While he is not going to win a Gold Glove at any position, Dozier could be good enough where he would not be a complete liability.
Dozier’s extension could also be the beginning of a spate of deals in Kansas City. Only four players have money guaranteed beyond this year. The Royals could look to lock in other members of their core while continuing to change their philosophy on offense.
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Hunter Dozier has signed a long term deal with the Kansas City Royals. As the Royals are looking to modernize their offense, this was an extension that needed to happen.