MLB Trade Rumors: Kansas City Royals shopping for starting pitching
By Hayden Kane
The Kansas City Royals are still hanging on the fringes of the playoff picture as the July 31st trade deadline approaches.
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In a different context they might not necessarily be persuaded to consider themselves all-out buyers, but given the ambitious moves they have made over the last few seasons, they feel that they have left themselves little choice in that regard.
As of July 30th the Royals sit five games out of first place in the American League Central and squarely in the mix for the second wild card spot. A playoff appearance is realistic, but it seems that their overall record (53-52) would indicate a team that should also take as step back when assessing their situation, especially considering they are in the same division as the Detroit Tigers.
When it comes to a possible move that could be made at this year’s deadline, the Royals reportedly have their eyes on starting pitching. Specifically, they are looking at potential deals for John Lackey, Bartolo Colon, and A.J. Burnett. As of Wednesday night Andy Martino reports that they maintain that interest:
Sounds like #Royals still trying to explore SP options. @jonmorosi says called on Lackey. We know they called on Colon today. Like Burnett.
— Andy Martino (@martinonyc) July 30, 2014
Lackey makes the most sense for any number of interested teams because of the odd “Tommy John” clause in his contract that makes him only a $500,000 salary hit next season. That is as compared to Colon, for example, who brings an $11 million price tag in 2015. For the right price the Royals would be inclined to make a deal work for any of these guys, but the money beyond this sason will certainly be a factor.
Be sure to stay tuned to FanSided’s MLB Rumors page to stay up to date with the latest action and rumblings from the baseball hot stove this trade season.