9 Royals Who Won't Return in 2024
Kansas City should field a very different club next season in hopes of contention
By Joe Summers
8. Nick Pratto - 1B
Pratto is another infielder that shouldn't factor into the Royals' plans moving forward.
The organization's 2017 first-round draft pick looked like a future star in 2019, clubbing 36 home runs while winning a gold glove in the minors. Unfortunately, that minor league success hasn't translated to the majors.
He hit only .216 over two seasons with the Royals and lacks plate discipline, striking out a ridiculous 138 times in 306 at-bats in 2023. You could theoretically live with that if Pratto was going to hit 30+ homers, but he only had seven and hasn't displayed the kind of consistent power that makes you envision something greater.
My oh my has Nick Pratto been impressive this season. Sure, strikeout has been over 30%, but he offsets that with his power and ability to get on base. Have to love what you’re getting from him so far. #Royals pic.twitter.com/xS3nBOMCef
— Jared Perkins (@JaredCP1) June 5, 2023
Pratto still has the tools to be a successful player, so I imagine the Royals could obtain something of value for him over the next couple of months.
With Vinnie Pasquantino set to return from his season-ending injury and Loftin waiting in the wings, Kansas City doesn't have time to wait for Pratto to develop that plate discipline.