KC Royals: 3 reasons why the trade for Andrew Benintendi makes sense
By Cody Rickman
2) A healthy and consistent Benintendi will allow for more lineup flexibility around the diamond
Benintendi rates out as a plus-plus hitter and he has stated he got away from his game by “trying to go up there and hit for more power”. A plus-plus hitter (capable of a .300 batting average) with excellent gap power has a chance to excel with the massive outfield at Kauffman stadium.
In 39 plate appearances at Kauffman Stadium, Benintendi has lit it up slashing .485/.564/.848. Hopefully, those offensive numbers are related to Kauffman’s dimensions and batter’s eye and not the Royals game plan.
The offense Benintendi is capable of providing is enough to keep his bat in the line-up every day. When healthy he also brings defense which made him a finalist for the Gold Glove award in 2018 and 2019.
Manager Mike Matheny will be able to flex his analytic side more often with a consistent Benintendi in left field. The Royals roster as currently constructed allows for a good mix of lefty and righty bats.
Match-up concerns, slumps, and roster depth have plagued the Royals during the last few seasons. The addition of Benintendi will allow Matheny to move around versatile everyday players like Whit Merrifield and Hunter Dozier. Players who are slumping can get a break and hitters who exhibit match-up advantages can get into the line-up now more frequently.