Whit Merrifield is a veteran of trade rumors at this point. The Kansas City Royals second baseman has been coveted for the past few years, as his production, defensive versatility, and affordable contract combined to make him one of the bigger bargains in the game. However, the Royals were not interested in trading Merrifield, rebuffing all possible offers.
But times have changed. The Royals are now reportedly more willing to trade Merrifield than before, although that does not mean that a deal will end up happening at any point. But the fact that the front office is at least willing to listen is a departure from previous years.
Three trade destinations for Kansas City Royals second baseman Whit Merrifield
Given Merrifield’s ability to play all over the infield and in the outfield, he has become one of the most desired players at the trade deadline. His contract, with $2.75 million due in 2022 and a $10.5 million option in 2023, certainly helps as well. The Royals, in theory, would have their pick of suitors for his services, potentially speeding up their rebuilding process.
Where could the Kansas City Royals send Whit Merrifield? Let’s look at three potential trade destinations.
Chicago White Sox
Chances are, if the Chicago White Sox are going to make a move this year, it will be to replace Nick Madrigal in their lineup. Merrifield, with his ability to play almost anywhere on the diamond, would be a great fit.
Merrifield would replace the contact oriented approach that Madrigal provided the White Sox while providing much more. He has more pop in his bat than the injured second baseman possesses, hitting eight homers and 21 doubles thus far in 2021. His dynamic speed would add another element to the lineup as well, as his 25 steals lead the league.
He would also be more than just a rental for the White Sox. Once Madrigal returns in 2022, Merrifield could potentially move to the outfield, where Chicago could have a void. If nothing else, he would be an impressive super utility player, playing nearly every day while seeing time around the diamond.
The biggest question, if the Kansas City Royals were to engage in such trade talks, is whether or not they would be willing to trade Merrifield to a divisional foe. The White Sox do have pieces that could make a deal work, but the idea of seeing Merrifield in Chicago for the next 2.5 years may be more than the Royals would want.
The Chicago White Sox are looking for a second baseman. Whit Merrifield would be a perfect fit, if the Royals were willing to make a trade within the division.