The Kansas City Royals currently sit in the basement of the American League Central with few signs of slowing down. A frustrating season, to say the least. Sitting double-digit games below .500, it isn't a hot take to point to the team likely opting to sell ahead of this year's trade deadline. Pretty soon, Kansas City will be playing for the 2027 season, making any possible chance to add building blocks a clear decision.
For the Royals, it isn't just about what you can add, but clearing the deck for current youth. Parting ways with veterans who can help contenders opens up a clear opportunity for surprise future contributors to emerge. With this in mind, let's look at the three pieces most likely to be on the move ahead of the MLB trade deadline.
These three Royals veterans may just be playing their last few games in KC as we inch closer to the trade deadline
1. Nick Loftin
Loftin is 27 years old and has team control remaining as a pre-arbitration player that could be viewed as KC's best trade chip. Loftin has infield and outfield experience, giving a playoff contender potential flexibility. For the Royals, it makes sense to cash in on what has been a solid offensive season and attempt to add a viable piece for the future. This doesn't mean that you should be in a hurry to part ways with Loftin, but be open to the idea.
The Royals owe it to Bobby Witt Jr. to find every possible avenue to brighten the future, and dealing Loftin could easily fit into this equation. With this in mind, Royals fans shouldn't be surprised if the franchise opts to part ways with the veteran.
2. Seth Lugo
Lugo has a 3.69 ERA this season and is giving Kansas City quality innings that could boost the bottom of a contender's rotation. The only concern here is whether or not you can find value for a starter that isn't going to be viewed as a top-of-the-rotation option. Lugo can contribute at a high level to a winning team, but is more of an innings eater than a player expected to set the tone or dominate.
Still, with the level of pitching injuries around the league, there is going to be some level of market for the right-hander. The Royals owe it to themselves to explore the 36-year-old Lugo's market and see whether or not dealing the starter could brighten the future.
3. Vinnie Pasquantino
Trading Pasquantino should be approached with a bit more urgency than the previous two names. Offensive struggles have led to a clear level of frustration as the slugger is no longer living up to expectations. Not only is the veteran struggling, but he's blocking the playing time of youth that would help Kansas City get a better read on its 2027 future.
With this in mind, if there is one player that is dealt in the next weeks, it should be Pasquantino. The first baseman and designated hitter could be enticing for a team looking to bolster its depth or to add a big bat viewed as a reclamation project. There simply isn't a downside for the Royals with a move that must be accomplished.
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