"They've explored bigger trades than those throughout the winter as well, but Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported recently that the club is "increasingly unlikely" to be successful in their efforts to trade for either Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran or Cardinals utility man Brendan Donovan. While that doesn't completely rule out the club pulling off one of those deals, it's surely disappointing news for Royals fans who had been dreaming on a big trade."
"Upgrading the team's lackluster outfield mix has been a priority in Kansas City this winter, and either Duran or Donovan surely offer a big boost. Duran is a full-time outfielder who has experience in both left field and center field, and would likely play center for the Royals if acquire. That would push into a depth role and move Lane Thomas over to right alongside Jac Caglianone."
"Donovan, meanwhile, is capable of playing all over the infield and outfield. If acquired, he'd likely split time between the outfield corners and second base. That would cut into playing time for Collins in left field, Caglianone in right field, and Jonathan India at second base while also moving Thomas into a timeshare with Isbel in center. Either of those situations would substantially improve the Royals' lineup, but it seems a deal coming together is a long shot at this point."
The Royals added outfielder Isaac Collins and lefty setup man Matt Strahm and pursued larger trades during the winter. Targeting outfield upgrades, the club eyed Jarren Duran and Brendan Donovan as impactful fits. Duran would likely play center and push Lane Thomas to right, while Donovan would provide corner outfield and second base versatility, affecting playing time for Collins, Caglianone, Jonathan India, and Thomas. Either addition would improve the lineup significantly. Trade prospects dim given the value of Duran and Donovan relative to available Royals trade chips and reluctance to surrender long-term rotation pieces.
Read at MLB Trade Rumors
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