Kansas City Royals consider bold move for former Cubs slugger Christopher Morel
The Kansas City Royals have already shown a willingness to take risks this offseason, and they might not be done yet. With an eye on improving their roster, the Royals have strategically utilized their 40-man roster spots, creating opportunities for further acquisitions.
Roster Changes and Trade Acquisitions
As the offseason unfolded, the Royals had several openings on their 40-man roster. They capitalized on this by making two notable trades, bringing in right-handed pitcher Mason Black from the San Francisco Giants and outfielder Kameron Misner from the Tampa Bay Rays. Additionally, they safeguarded two promising prospects, Steven Zobac and Ben Kudrna, from the impending Rule 5 Draft by adding them to the roster.
Even after these moves, the Royals find themselves with one available spot on their 40-man roster. This opens the door for potential additions, especially with numerous intriguing players recently designated for assignment across the league.
Eyes on Christopher Morel
Among those players is Christopher Morel, the former outfielder for the Tampa Bay Rays, who was DFA’d after a challenging season. Morel’s performance dipped to a .684 OPS with a sub-.300 on-base percentage, resulting in a negative-0.3 WAR. However, his time with the Chicago Cubs in 2023 showcased his capabilities, where he belted 26 home runs and recorded an impressive .821 OPS.
The Royals are actively seeking a right-handed bat to complement Jac Caglianone in right field. While Morel’s track record may raise some eyebrows due to its inconsistency, his potential as a low-cost addition could make him an attractive option if he clears waivers and opts for free agency.
Potential Alternatives
While Morel stands out as a possibility, he is not the only player on the Royals’ radar. The team could explore other options among those designated for assignment, especially if they are seeking affordable free-agent deals. The pursuit of a reliable right-handed bat is crucial for the Royals as they aim to strengthen their lineup for the upcoming season.
The offseason remains a critical period for the Royals, and their willingness to take calculated risks could define their approach moving forward. With one roster spot still available, fans will be watching closely to see how the team maneuvers in the coming days.
