KC Royals: Bubba Starling Prospect Profile

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Feb 23, 2016; Surprise, AZ, USA; Kansas City Royals fans look on during a workout at Surprise Stadium Practice Fields. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 23, 2016; Surprise, AZ, USA; Kansas City Royals fans look on during a workout at Surprise Stadium Practice Fields. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /

2016 MLB Outlook: September Call-up

While the young KC Royals’ prospect made significant strides last season, there is just no sense in rushing him to the Major Leagues.

The Royals are trying to contend for a title for a third straight year. Gone are the years when the Royals can rush their prospects to the big stage mid-way through a season to see if they have what it takes.

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They now have something that allows players like Starling to take the time he needs to flourish: depth.

Aside from All-Star players in left and center fields, both of whom didn’t flourish until their later years also, they have plenty of depth in right field.

Jarrod Dyson is apparently going to get a shot at starting in right field. He’s earned it. Where would this team be without Jarrod Dyson? Who knows what would have transpired had he not stole home in the 2014 Wild Card game or second base in game five of the 2015 World Series.

In the event that Dyson doesn’t work out, there are plenty of players waiting in the wings for a shot.

Paulo Orlando played a big role for the Royals last year and proved a capable replacement in the outfield. Fringe players like Jose Martinez, Reymond Fuentes, and Brett Eibner are also waiting to make and impact and newly signed outfielder Travis Snider wouldn’t mind a shot either.

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There is not a clear path to the Major Leagues for the former first-round pick in 2016, but hopefully there is no need to rush him.

With a little more polish in the Major Leagues and perhaps a chance to develop at the Triple ‘A’ level, he could be ready to contribute in a full-time role next season. If 2015 was any indication, Starling may be able to shake his early label of ‘bust’ and turn into another late flourishing star for the Royals.

Next: Top Web Gems 2015

What do you think KC Royals’ fans? Will Starling find his way to the Major Leagues this season? Was last season a fluke? Let me know your thoughts in the comments’ section below.