PT TOMORROW: AL Central—The KC Royals need home runs—Duda, Duda
Apr 1 2019
Perhaps in an effort to procure a little extra power from the free agent pool, the Royals cast their net and signed Lucas Duda (DH/1B, KC), who should see the lion’s share of the at-bats at designated hitter, especially against right-handers. This lineup would push Jorge Soler’s (OF, KC) bat to the outfield, put Whit Merrifield (OF/2B, KC) back on the dirt where he’s spent the majority of his career, and free up Chris Owings (INF/OF, KC) for a more traditional utility role.
The good news regarding Duda is that he still has power, posting a 135 xPX last season, and he continues to hit righties well. The less rosy news is five straight years of xBA in the .260s or lower, a ct% that has dipped to 68% and 69% the past two...
Almost!
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