2013 MLB Trade Deadline: Royals Acquire Outfielder Justin Maxwell From Astros

Apr 7, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros center fielder Justin Maxwell (44) hits a single during the first inning against the Oakland Athletics at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

It’s been mostly quiet for the Royals so far this trade deadline, but they’ve made at least one move now, acquiring outfielder Justin Maxwell from the Houston Astros.

UPDATE: Bob Dutton reports that Maxwell was dealt for pitching prospect Kyle Smith who had a 2.85 ERA in 104.1 innings for Wilmington. He was a fourth round pick in 2011.

Maxwell’s a former product of the Nationals system who’s played center field primarily, but also can play the corners. He’s better at the plate against lefties than righties (.837 OPS vs. lefties, .652 OPS vs. righties), suggesting a platoon with David Lough may be in order. Keith Law says it’s a pretty good and cheap move. Maxwell also has some power, hitting 18 homers in 2012 in 352 plate appearances.

To make room for Maxwell, the Royals may place Lorenzo Cain on the disabled list after he tweaked his groin in Chicago making a catch. Chris Getz has missed time as well after hurting his knee in the Orioles series in Kansas City. A Cain DL stint would probably make more sense since otherwise, the Royals would be carrying five outfielders.

Dutton also points out that Maxwell has suffered a broken hand and concussion this year and that Maxwell will join the team tomorrow in Minnesota, at which point a corresponding move will be made to get him on the roster.