The Kansas City Royals season has taken a dramatic turn over the past two months. At the beginning of May, the Royals were atop the AL Central and had one of the best records in baseball. Since that point, they have posted a 17-33 record, falling from playoff contention into a battle to stay out of the AL Central basement.
It is a disappointing result for a team that had hoped to turn things around this year. They made several moves this offseason in an attempt to be competitive this season, but have been doomed by an inconsistent offense and a bullpen that has been an outright disaster.
Three players the Kansas City Royals should put on the trade block
As disappointing as this year may have been for the Royals, it can still work out in their favor. They have several players that could be of interest to contending teams at the trade deadline, which would allow them to further stock up for their rebuild. If they can land young, controllable bullpen arms for their hoped for push next year, so much the better.
Let’s take a look at three players the Kansas City Royals should trade by the deadline.
Michael Taylor
Michael Taylor has never lived up to his potential, but he could have value at the trade deadline as a fourth outfielder for teams in need of depth.
Taylor has not exactly been stellar this season, posting a .231/.283/328 batting line in his 247 plate appearances. However, he does have a bit of power, hitting five homers this season and twice reaching the double digit mark. Taylor also has some speed as well, stealing double digit bases four times in his career.
He has also been a relatively solid outfielder throughout his time in the majors. Although most of his experience has come in center, he can play both corner spots in the outfield reasonably well. For a team looking for a budget friendly backup in the outfield, Taylor could be an option that would not break the bank in terms of a dollar amount or in prospects.
The Kansas City Royals have given Michael Taylor a chance to start this season. While he has not lived up to expectations, he could bring back a piece for the future.