Kansas City Royals: 10 free agents who would make sense in KC
By Cullen Jekel
Main Target: Kolten Wong, 2B, St. Louis Cardinals
The Cardinals cut ties with Wong, 30, after eight years by declining their $12 million team option for 2021. Last season, Wong earned a bit above $10 million, so he may be looking for a deal in that neighborhood, which could price out the Royals.
But Wong’s worth a look, at least. He’s won two consecutive Gold Gloves at second base. Signing him could enable Whit Merrifield to continue to perform as a super-utility player on an everyday basis. Plus, in 2019, Wong earned MVP votes as he accumulated 5.2 WAR.
In two of the past four seasons, Wong has hit .285 while posting an OBP of at least .350 in three of the past four seasons. He also swiped 24 bases in 2019, and that speed would fit nicely with this ballclub. Wong also doesn’t strike out that much.
Again, though, at his age, he’s probably looking for a long-term deal, and considering his production, especially with his glove, he’s going to have suitors. But I’ve also been a fan of Wong and would love to see him stay in the state but don royal blue.
Alternative Target: Ha-Seong Kim, SS, Kiwoom Heroes (KBO)
Kim, 24, only stands 5-foot-9 but he’s blasted 133 home runs in his seven seasons in the Korean Baseball Organization. The righty, who split time between short and third base last season, scored 111 runs while hitting a career-high 30 home runs and driving in 109 runs while slashing .306/.397/.523.
Kim may cost more than the Royals are willing to spend, but with Major League teams perhaps more focused on next year’s crop of free agent short stops, he could be there for the taking on a nice deal.