Kansas City Royals still trying to figure out Adalberto Mondesi

Jun 20, 2021; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Royals shortstop Adalberto Mondesi (27) celebrates after hitting a ground rule double in the third inning against the Boston Red Sox at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 20, 2021; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Royals shortstop Adalberto Mondesi (27) celebrates after hitting a ground rule double in the third inning against the Boston Red Sox at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

The Kansas City Royals had seemingly come to a realization about Adalberto Mondesi. He is an incredible talent, but also a player who is seemingly injured more often than not. General manager Dayton Moore had admitted that the Royals cannot count on Mondesi to be an everyday part of the lineup, with the team hoping to get approximately 80 games from him per season.

There is also another pressing question with Mondesi. He is quickly being pushed out of the lineup. With Bobby Witt Jr. at Triple-A, and Nicky Lopez playing far better than anyone had expected, both middle infield spots could be set for years. Add Whit Merrifield into the mix, and Mondesi could be a man without a position.

Kansas City Royals trying to maximize Adalberto Mondesi

That does not mean that the Royals are ready to make Mondesi a reserve or utility option just yet. He is set to get a look at third base, and to spend more time as their designated hitter. He will spend the majority of September between those two spots as the Royals look towards their future.

A position change was seemingly in the works for Mondesi regardless of his fragility. With Witt on the way, he was likely to move from short regardless. Theoretically, spending time at third, and getting a good deal of time as the Royals’ designated hitter, would help reduce some of the wear on his body.

This does potentially cause another issue. Hunter Dozier had been the Royals’ third baseman and had recently signed an extension. However, he has been putrid with the bat this season, causing him to lose some playing time. For now, he will move to right, but it remains to be seen if he can right the ship once more.

In the end, it comes down to the Royals’ ability to put their best players on the diamond. Mondesi, as maddening and inconsistent as he may be, is still an extremely talented player. If a change in positions, and utilizing him as the designated hitter, can lead to that awaited breakout, that would be worth any headaches in regards to playing time.

The Kansas City Royals have a new plan for Adalberto Mondesi. If he performs well in September, this could be a potential answer.