J.J. Picollo is currently in San Antonio for GM meetings, potentially setting the stage for an off-season deal. His primary focus is on acquiring a leadoff hitter capable of setting the table. Reports indicate that he might consider trading starting pitching depth to achieve this.
Improving the leadoff position is a priority for the Royals. They are looking for a player similar to Garrett Hampson, a right-handed batter adept at playing center field, second base, and shortstop. Potential targets include Jonathan India and Spencer Steer via trade, as well as free agent Jurickson Profar. The team has flexibility, with Michael Massey and Maikel Garcia also able to play the outfield.
Should the Royals pursue offensive help in the trade market, sources suggest they might entertain offers for pitchers like Kris Bubic and Alec Marsh.
The Royals’ leadoff hitters had the lowest batting average in baseball this year at .228/.270/.334. They also ranked among the bottom six teams in offensive production from both third base and second base.
Alec Marsh showed improvement this year, achieving a 4.53 ERA over 129 innings with an 8.6 strikeouts-per-nine innings ratio. He improved his walk and home run rates compared to his rookie season but struggled to pitch deep into games, completing six innings in just six of 25 starts.
Kris Bubic, recovering from Tommy John surgery, spent the year in the bullpen, performing well with a 2.67 ERA in 27 relief appearances and an impressive strikeout-to-walk ratio. However, as a starter, he had a mixed history with a 4.99 ERA in 60 career starts.
The Royals have re-signed Michael Wacha, maintaining the core of their starting rotation, which includes Wacha, Seth Lugo, Cole Ragans, and Brady Singer. Kyle Wright, who missed this year due to injury, might also be a candidate for the rotation next season. Picollo has emphasized the importance of having depth in the starting rotation, aiming for seven to nine pitchers to prepare for in-season challenges. Additionally, pitching prospect Noah Cameron could be in the mix after posting a 3.08 ERA in 25 starts between Double-A and Triple-A this season.
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