Kansas City Royals trade rumors: Out on Josh Willingham

The Kansas City Royals are in need of a right fielder and have been digging through the market to find one. They’ve been linked to a handful of players in recent weeks, but every day it seems as if another potential deal falls apart.

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Much of the same can be said today as according to Jerry Crasnick of ESPN, the Kansas City Royals pursuit of Josh Willingham is all but over.

No longer wanted by the Minnesota Twins, Willingham has been rumored to be on the move to a handful of destinations including to the Kansas City Royals, but the team has reportedly moved on from the veteran.

Part of the reason, as noted above, is that Josh Willingham is a left fielder and the last thing the Royals want is a player at a new position, struggling defensively. Some of the more talented outfielders in Major League Baseball wouldn’t have a problem moving from left to right, but Willingham is far from a talented defender.

Another reason as to why they may no longer have interest is that Willingham’s main asset, his bat, has been colder than ice all season. Sure, there is some pop there, but it seems as if those are the only type of hits he’s been generating and getting the bat on the ball has proven difficult for the veteran.

Combining all the factors, it’s understandable as to why the Kansas City Royals would prefer to look elsewhere. Of course, their options are running low after they’ve also been said to no longer have interest in Alex Rios and Marlon Byrd given their elevated price tags.