KC Royals: Five Bold Predictions For 2016

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Royals Spring Training – Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-USA TODAY Sports /

Bubba Starling Will Hit A Home Run In His Major League Debut

Bubba Starling is coming off of his best season in the Minor Leagues so far. While a .254 average is nothing to get too excited about, it’s a big step for Starling who batted just .218 in single ‘A’ ball in 2014.

Starling also didn’t hit a lot of home runs for the Northwest Arkansas Naturals hitting only ten last season. It should be noted however that eight of his home runs came in the second half of his season. His power numbers are improving steadily and his late development is a good sign.

Starling is only 23 years old, so it’s still too soon to label him a bust. If he is on the brink of a breakthrough, he could turn into a big asset to the Royals in these next couple of seasons.

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Dayton Moore already thinks he’s ready for the Major Leagues, at least defensively. If someone goes down due to injury, or one of the Royals’ right fielders is struggling, Starling could get his shot. In fact, a strong showing in Arizona may be enough for him to break camp with the Royals out of Spring Training.

Starling put up impressive numbers in the Arizona Fall League in 2015. In just 84 at-bats, Starling hit four home runs for his team and slashed .274/.330/.440. His power numbers definitely seem to be trending upwards.

If Bubba Starling can accomplish this bold prediction, he’ll be the first Royals’ player to hit a home run in his first at-bat since Jon Nunnaly did so in 1995.

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