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

Outfield

Kyle Isbel looked great defensively during 2020 spring training. He needs to develop more at the plate against advanced pitching. The more experience he is able to get in the batter’s box during 2021 spring training, the better. Isbel needs to find that sweet spot of aggression and patience at the plate.

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Expect Isbel to be the long-term answer in left field once Benintendi’s contract expires. Isbel has the potential to slash .270/.330/.430 with 20 stolen bases. He should be a plus defender in left field.

Seuly Matias has all of the power in the world and he has the sky is the limit offensive potential. He, unfortunately, does not get to his power very often in game situations. Matias has struggled with his mental approach to the game and tends swings too hard too often resulting in high strikeout numbers.

If he tones it down and looks for his pitch, he could be a superstar. He is an above-average runner and fielder with a cannon for an arm. Matias needs to show he can make more contact at the plate against advanced pitching.

Erick Pena is the Royals’ best positional prospect not named Bobby Witt Jr. He is a very impressive 18-year-old. The work ethic and talent are there for him to be a superstar. He will not be completely ready until 2024/2025 when he will still just be 22 years old, but he will show flashes during spring training of his potential which should be exciting to watch.

Pena can hit, hit for power, run, and field. It will be interesting to see how he adjusts to advanced pitching in spring training camp.

Anderson Miller is another player in the Royals system with a sweet swing. He is an under-the-radar type player with average tools across the board. If he ever puts together his plate approach for a consistent stretch he could be an asset for the Royals in the outfield.

The Kansas City Royals front office has set-up the team to be successful in the short-term and the long-term. This is an unusual feeling to have as a Royals fan. The front office, scouting department, and development team have done a fantastic job in recent years.

The Royals have the talent to compete now in what is looking more and more like a strong AL Central. The Royals also have the prospect talent to take over vacancies created from expiring contracts. The Kansas City Royals are going to be in the thick of things in the AL Central for the next 6+ years.

We are just getting a glimpse of the next Royals stars during this year’s spring training