The Kansas City Royals were among the worst teams in MLB last season in terms of outfield production.
The -6.4 Wins Above Average from Kansas City’s outfielders ranked No. 29, only ahead of the Colorado Rockies. Because of that, the Royals are looking to upgrade their outfield unit.
It was reported Wednesday by MLB insider Francys Romero that Kansas City was interested in Adolis Garcia prior to his signing with the Philadelphia Phillies. The Royals have also reportedly been interested in a trade for Boston Red Sox outfielder Jaren Duran. With the known interest in outfield help, here are the top three remaining options for Kansas City to pursue.
Nick Castellanos (via trade)
Philadelphia’s signing of the aforementioned Garcia meant that Castellanos would certainly be traded or released prior to 2026 Opening Day. Castellanos struggled to find his footing last season with a .250 average and -0.8 WAR.
His tension with the front office could have very well played a part in Castellano’s worst offensive season since the COVID-shortened 2020 season. A change of scenery could be needed for the veteran outfielder to find his footing again.
Mike Tauchman (via free agency)
Tauchman is one of the more underrated outfielders in all of the league. His career .246 average doesn’t tell the full story, though, as over the past three seasons, Tauchman was a key contributor for both the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox.
He would be an excellent addition to the Kansas City lineup, and his 112 OPS+ would’ve been the best among Royals outfielders last season. Tauchman should very well be in consideration for a free agent contract to remain in the American League Central.
Ryan O’Hearn (via free agency)
Kansas City could use a bit of slug in its lineup and O’Hearn would provide just that. His 17 home runs last season would have been fourth most on the team and eight more than the highest total from an outfielder.
Adding protection in the lineup between Bobby Witt Jr. and Maikel Garcia could be crucial for a team looking to get back to the postseason for the second time in three years.
More MLB: Report: Royals interested in Jarren Duran, want lower price to pursue a deal
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