KC Royals: 12 hitters to keep an eye on in spring training

Second Base, Third Base, and Shortstop

Bobby Witt Jr. is a true 5-tool prospect (60 or better for scouting grades) who showed he is adept at hitting pitches low in the zone during 2020 pre-season summer camp. Expect him to be challenged inside and up in the zone. He might struggle as a result, but he is uber-talented, so look for him to make an adjustment to handle this.

Expect to see Witt rotate between third base, shortstop, and second base defensively. He can handle each position well, but he is a perennial Gold Glove candidate at third base. Long-term projections have Witt slashing .280/.340/.460 with 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases potential.

Nick Loftin will play every position as long he is in spring training camp. He should see some time in the outfield in addition to around the infield. Loftin is an above-average defender everywhere and offensively he consistently makes good contact. He rarely strikes out and can become an annoyance at the plate with the ability to drive up pitch counts.

There is power there to the pull-side (reminds me of Whit Merrifield’s home runs). If Loftin shows power to the opposite field it is time to get excited about his projections. Loftin should move quickly in the system with his work ethic and desire to do anything to help the team win. His versatility is a major asset.

Clay Dungan should see time at second base and shortstop. Dungan has a sweet swing and patient approach. In MLB spring training camp he might show struggles with velocity inside and it will be intriguing to see how he handles it. Dungan is an underrated prospect in the Royals system and he is my sleeper pick to be an average everyday player if he continues to develop his game.