KC Royals: Five trades that need to happen this winter
By Cody Rickman
The Astros have one of the most talented rosters in the MLB and this offseason they will have to make some tough decisions regarding soon to be free agents (SP Gerritt Cole and RP Will Harris) and finding spots for rule-5 eligible prospects knocking on the door.
23-year-old RHP reliever Francis Martes has been recovering from an UCL injury in 2018 for most of the past two years appearing in short inning starts. Martes once a highly rated prospect, brings a potential arsenal of +96-mph fastball and outstanding curveball. His change-up is still developing and the lack of development may lead him to being a full-time reliever.
Martes’ inability to find his command may cost him his 40-man roster spot and the Royals would be wise to jump at the opportunity to pry Martes away from the Astros. If Martes rediscovers his form he could be a valuable addition to the Royals late-inning bullpen. Martes is suspended for 80 games due to PED usage, which is something to keep in mind.
Researching the Astros roster led me to two other possible pitching candidates having exceptional years in the high minors who may not find themselves on the 40-man roster: RHP Cristian Javier and RHP Enoli Paredes.
Both Javier and Paredes offer great potential and may force Martes off the 40-man roster, but if either isn’t added to the 40-man roster this offseason the Royals should make every attempt to obtain them.