Sellin’ season is cranking up, and Kansas City is ready to blow it up. MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand reported that the Royals are “open to trading nearly anybody on their roster,” with the exception of a few young, key players. KC is not a very good baseball team — the 19-39 record they have compiled is the second worst in all of baseball. So now, the Royals are looking to ship off big-league talent and rebuild for the future. Here are a few of the players the Braves may target:
Whit Merrifield
The 30-year-old second baseman just signed a 4-year, 16.25 million dollar extension so he would come at a low price given his productivity. Currently slashing .297/.353/.508, Merrifield would provide an offensive boost to this lineup while also being able to play multiple positions on the field. His price will likely be higher than other names on this list, but it is because he is the best player currently available on the Royals’ roster.
Jorge Soler
The 27-year-old outfielder would provide a big boost of power to the bench. He currently has a -.1 WAR due to his poor defense, but you don’t play defense on the bench. Possibly having a new team dynamic in Atlanta will help Soler continue to improve as a player. If the Braves feel he is a better bench piece than Matt Joyce, then they have to at least inquire on Soler.
Ian Kennedy
The current Royals’ closer, Kennedy would require a significant portion of his contract to be retained by KC for this deal to be made. He signed a 5yr/$70 million contract that ends in 2020. Kennedy provides a veteran in the back end of the bullpen that would be vital to Atlanta moving forward. However, at 0-2 with a 4.18 ERA, the Braves may look to a veteran with better production moving forward.
Danny Duffy
Duffy, like Kennedy, will require a hefty portion of his contract to be eaten by KC. he inked a 5yr/$65 million deal in 2017 and is signed through 2021. Through 7 starts, Duffy is 3-2 with a 4.05 ERA. The southpaw could slide in as that 5th starter or transition to the bullpen. It all depends on what the Braves feel is best.
Jake Diekman
Diekman is a lefty-hurler that Braves Country is familiar with. The former Philadelphia flamethrower would be a welcomed addition to the bullpen. He signed a 1yr/$2.75 million deal with a mutual option for 2020, so the Braves could keep Diekman if he performs in Atlanta. It has been a rough couple of years for the southpaw, but a change of scenery to the National League could see his production return. Of all the names on this list, Diekman is the most likely to end up in Atlanta given the need and fit.