Kansas City Royals: Recent Notable First Round Picks

Kansas City Royals designated hitter Billy Butler – Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports

Billy Butler really doesn’t need an introduction in Kansas City. He was loved by this city during his time with the Royals, and it was hard to see him go after the Royals’ incredible postseason run last year.

There’s no doubt that Billy Butler wanted to remain a Royal, but it was time to part ways after last season for sure.

Butler was drafted by Kansas City in 2004 and elected to sign with them rather than playing baseball for the Florida Gators. He spent three seasons in the minors before being called up to the majors in May 2007. He was dubbed as the designated hitter in the 2011 season when some guy named Eric Hosmer was called up to play first base.

Kansas City’s love for Billy Butler was shown during the 2012 season when the city hosted the All-Star game that summer. He was the lone Royal to make it to the big game and was snubbed in the home run derby to Robinson Cano (who was booed by Kansas City natives).

There’s no doubt that Billy Butler wanted to remain a Royal, but it was time to part ways after last season for sure. Butler was frustrating to watch, as he constantly would ground into a double play or not come through when the team needed it the most.

The fact that he only hit nine home runs as a designated hitter last season was enough reason alone for the Royals to say good-bye to him.

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