KC Royals: 2018 Free Agent Extension Candidates

Alcides Escobar

What’s there to say about Esky. He may not be the easiest to understand in his post-game interviews, but no one’s paying him to talk.

With a promising young player in Mondesi making his way to the big leagues, it would make sense to try and employ two stellar defenders up the middle.

Alcides Escobar shines on both sides of the ball. Whether he is confusing statisticians by leading off or racking up more highlight reel plays with the glove, Esky is a joy to watch. He finally earned a gold glove in 2015, although it’s not like he had to prove anything to the fans.

Escobar is in the same situation as Wade Davis in that he could walk after the 2016 season if the club doesn’t pick up his $6.5 million option. While Escobar has only posted a 3.4 bWAR over his last three seasons, he is a very valuable player and worth a look as an extension candidate.

While it may not make sense to keep Escobar beyond 2017 as a shortstop, there may be value to seeing what he can offer at second base. Omar Infante is not the answer and Christian Colon, although a fan favorite, is better suited as a utility player and spark plug off the bench.

With a promising young player in Mondesi making his way to the big leagues, it would make sense to try and employ two stellar defenders up the middle.

Esky will be 31 entering the 2018 campaign, another reason to consider moving his elite defense to second to extend his career.

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