KC Royals: Projecting 2016 Opening Day Roster

Right Field Options

It’s really frustrating to see Jarrod Dyson miss the opening day start in right field for the Royals. He’s waited a long time to get his shot and he lasted all of one at-bat in Spring Training. He’ll be back quickly, but at that point it may be too late.

Paulo Orlando was expected to platoon with Dyson in right field and now he’s likely to earn the opening day start. There are a couple players who could give him a run for his money though.

Travis Snider was signed to a Minor League contract prior to the start of Spring Training, but has done little to impress thus far. His bat is his biggest weapon and it’s been quiet. He’s batting only .211 and has struck out in seven of his 19 at-bats. He’s not the best defender and he’s not a threat on the base paths.

His ability to play anywhere on the field is going to be intriguing. The Royals just witnessed how valuable a utility player can be and Merrifield could look to fill some very big shoes.

Whit Merrifield is another player who could see time in right field. He’s really worked hard in the off-season and there is a

great article about his preparation here

. His ability to play anywhere on the field is going to be intriguing. The Royals just witnessed how valuable a utility player can be and Merrifield could look to fill some very big shoes.

While his stats are impressive so far, most of his time has come against players that wont be on big league rosters when the season starts. He’s really got to impress facing Major League talent the rest of the way, but he’s got a good shot.

Reymond Fuentes is another candidate to fill a platoon role with Orlando in right field. He’s had a killer Spring Training so far as he’s slashing .333/.462/.571 across 21 at-bats. The former first-round draft pick has yet to produce at the big league level but he is only 25 years old. Maybe he’s finally figured things out.

Next: Big Bunch Of Bullies