Kansas City Royals rumors: Zack Greinke not going anywhere
If there were any questions about the Kansas City Royals‘ intentions with Zack Greinke at the trade deadline, consider those answered.
According to Jon Heyman, Greinke is not going anywhere. The Royals do not have any inclination to trade Greinke unless he specifically asks to be sent to a contender at the deadline.
Zack Greinke will determine if Kansas City Royals trade him or not
Greinke would be a fairly sought after arm on the trade market despite what his overall numbers may indicate. He has posted a 4.52 ERA and a 1.276 WHiP in his 73.2 innings entering Friday, striking out 39 batters with 14 walks. Opponents have posted a .276/.311/.428 batting line against the former ace, adding to his generally unimpressive season.
But those numbers are deceptive. He was battered in four road outings against the Rockies, Diamondbacks, Twins, and Astros accounted for 23 of the 37 earned runs that he allowed as he lasted a total of 17.1 innings in those outings. Teams may have been willing to overlook those games while focusing on his otherwise solid showing.
None of that matters unless Greinke says that he wants to be traded. He reportedly purchased a home in Kansas City and clearly valued having his career come full circle as he returned to where it all began. The Royals, likewise, value what Greinke means on the roster as he can be a mentor to their young pitching staff.
Add how Greinke wants to be somewhere he finds comfortable, and it is a perfect storm for his staying in Kansas City. It also would not be a surprise to see the Royals look to keep Greinke in the organization beyond this year, either for one final season in the rotation or as a coach or part of the front office.
It is up to Zack Greinke if he is going to be traded by the Kansas City Royals. Chances are, he will not be going anywhere at the deadline.