Kansas City Royals: Two Years or Three Months

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Jul 9, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Royals third baseman Cheslor Cuthbert (19) makes a catch to end the eighth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Kauffman Stadium. The Royals won 8-3. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Kansas City Royals third baseman Cheslor Cuthbert (19) – Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports /

If you want some sunshine, this two year window of winning does coincide with the projection of some of the Royals key prospects.

Kyle Zimmer needs to establish a full year of healthy pitching, which he’s yet to do. I wouldn’t be surprised at all if he contributes to the Royals in 2016 because I believe he’s truly that talented, but their approach will remain cautious with him. 2017 and 2018 are when I’d expect to see big contributions from Zimmer.

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Their prize prospect, Raul Mondesi, is still a minimum of two years away from the majors, unless his bat really gets going. His glove and speed are probably MLB-ready, the rest requires much more development. Maybe by 2018 he’ll be ready to replace a departing Alcides Escobar.

Bubba Starling make some significant strides in 2015. Like Mondesi, his glove and speed/athleticism are MLB-ready. Also like Mondesi, his bat is lagging behind. If he can improve on 2015’s improvements, 2017 and 2018 are real possibilities for Starling.

Additionally, the Royals have a couple of guys who are probably ready to contribute right now, but are likely blocked. I may be one of the few, but I think Christian Colon could do a respectable job at second base. I’m just not sure when he’s going to get his opportunity because of Omar Infante (and his bloated contract).

I also believe Cheslor Cuthbert is going to be a good hitter at the MLB level. Can his glove stick at third base? I have no idea. I know in the very limited time we saw him replace Moustakas, he looked capable.

Next: How will Dayton Moore handle it?

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