Kansas City Royals: 5 bold predictions for the 2021 Season
By Travis Neely
Kansas City Royals Bold Predictions
The Royals will have two players participate in the All-Star Game
It’s really going to be hard to not see at least three Royals players on the All-Star Game roster. But as most Royals fans know sometimes players get snubbed — Anticipate this happening to the team’s designated hitter, Jorge Soler. In fact, is probably going to be hard to not justify him getting a chance to participate in the Home Run Derby as well.
Look for Soler to have at least 18 homers by the break, then get snubbed and not be on the roster.
Salvador Perez, on the other hand, will be selected as the starting catcher. The face of the franchise is also recognized throughout baseball as the AL’s top backstop. Even with mediocre plate numbers, look for Salvy to get the majority of votes from the fans to become the starter.
Whit Merrifield is still listed as an outfielder and will see games at second base to start the year.
Kansas City Royals Bold Predictions
Kyle Isbel‘s performance will determine if Bobby Witt Jr. joins the Royals before Sept. 1.
Kyle Isbel made the Royals roster after having an incredible Spring Training. Isbel hit .333 with two homers and five RBI in 42 official plate appearances. By bringing him up, manager Mike Matheny would have the opportunity to move Whit Merrifield back to second base.
If Isbel could temporarily become the everyday right fielder, it removes the initial idea of placing Hunter Dozier in that same position at least for the short-term. Bobby Witt Jr. was most likely the other option at third base. If Isbel performs at the level he did this spring, there would be no reason to rush Witt Jr. to the big league roster.
If Isbel struggles at the plate and Witt Jr. starts to tear up the minors, look for the team to make a move to get Witt Jr. up fast.