Kansas City Royals: Top Ten Players To Watch In 2017

Kansas City Royals. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Kansas City Royals. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /
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Kansas City Royals first baseman Eric Hosmer
Kansas City Royals first baseman Eric Hosmer. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports /

Kansas City Royals Top Players To Watch: #1

Eric Hosmer – 1B

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There is no bigger story for the Kansas City Royals in 2017 than the future of Eric Hosmer. The young star at first base has been flirting with a breakthrough season for the past couple of years. Now in a contract year, he needs to come through big for his own personal reasons. The Royals are hoping to be the immediate (if not long-term) beneficiaries of that.

Much like Lorenzo Cain, Eric Hosmer could end up on the chopping block at the trade deadline. If the Royals are unable to keep pace with the rest of the league, it would make a lot of sense to trade him. Yes, the team has made it clear they want Hosmer around long-term. However, Dayton Moore will do whatever is necessary.

Royals fans will be monitoring this one very closely. Eric Hosmer has been very close to breaking out for the team, but that contract is hanging over the situation. Hopefully a long-term deal can be worked out just as Hosmer is emerging as a top star. Otherwise, there will be a pretty big hole to fill in this Kansas City lineup.

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The Kansas City Royals are not that far removed from the championship squad of just two years ago. They need to find a way to get that swagger and grittiness back if they want any shot at getting back to the top. It will take a lot of effort from a lot of guys. However, a strong performance this year could go a long way for the Royals in the future.