The Royals made their first massive move of the offseason aside from re-signing SP Michael Wacha, officially trading fellow starter Brady Singer for a bonafide leadoff hitter.
Jonathan India is now Kansas City's top-of-the-order dependable bat, signaling a massive organizational shift based on previous general manager Dayton Moore's damaging insistence on loyalty. In one move, J.J. Picollo proved he's superior to his predecessor by eschewing loyalty in favor of improvement.
India instantly becomes one of the organization's best hitters, with a proven track record and plenty of upside. These are no longer your parents' Royals.
Royals Trade SP Brady Singer for IF Jonathan India
BREAKING: The #Royals have acquired 2B Jonathan India and Joey Wiemer from the Cincinnati Reds for RHP Brady Singer, per @anne__rogers
— Jack Johnson (@JohnyJ_15) November 23, 2024
India, 27, had the 5th-best BB% in baseball last year. A former Rookie of the Year and first round pick.
They have their leadoff man. pic.twitter.com/jWyvjbKla4
Losing Singer is a big blow though makes sense given the depth the Royals have in the rotation. Cole Ragans, Seth Lugo, Michael Wacha, Alec Marsh, Kyle Wright, Daniel Lynch, and Alec Marsh will all compete for spots.
The offense was a much larger problem. India becomes the leadoff hitter, having career batting splits of .253/.352/412 and 15 home runs last season. He's a reliable top-of-the-order hitter, something the Royals haven't had.
Singer leaves Kansas City after a season with which he posted a 9-13 record and 3.71 ERA with 170 strikeouts in 170.1 innings. His fire and competitiveness were beloved by fans, though he was the most expendable asset given the franchise's needs.
JJ said that him and Michael Massey have also discussed LF in terms of adding versatility
— Cody Tapp (@codybtapp) November 23, 2024
Trading for India is the exact kind of move the previous administration never would've made. It's a great decision and indicates this group is serious about competing. The previous wasn't if it meant certain players they were loyal to had to be expendable - that's simply not how legitimate teams operate.
Friday is a great day. Not only because the lineup has gained a real bat, but also because we now know that Moore's poor choices are behind us.
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