Marlon Byrd Trade Rumors Starting Up Once Again

It seems as though it is time to start up the Marlon Byrd rumor train once again.

After being mentioned, on an almost continual basis, as a potential trade target for the Royals last year, Byrd remained in Philadelphia with the Phillies. Now, with the Phillies realizing that they need to make some moves in order to compete once again, and having virtually anything not nailed down available, Byrd has garnered the most interest from potential trade partners according to Ken Rosenthal.

On the surface, Marlon Byrd would somewhat make sense for the Royals. Last year, he posted a .264/.312/.445 batting line with 25 home runs. Not only would Byrd theoretically be the power bat that the Royals could use in their lineup, but Byrd also managed to play well in right, rating as being worth six defensive runs saved. He could be the replacement for Nori Aoki that the Royals may need.

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Yet, there are a number of red flags with Byrd. First, he has a no trade clause that includes the Royals, which he would likely waive only if his option for 2016 is picked up. That may not appear to be that much of an issue, but it actually leads to the second red flag – Byrd’s age. At age 37 heading into this season, how much longer can Byrd perform at this level? Even though he has put together two of his best seasons at age 35 and 36 respectively, it is not the norm for a player to get better into their mid to late 30’s.

Marlon Byrd would also involve a decent financial cost for the Royals. Including his option, Byrd would have two years left at a total of $16 Million, which may be a lot more than the Royals want to spend for a player about to enter his late 30’s. Unless the Phillies are willing to pick up a portion of that salary, the cost, both financially and in terms of whatever prospects that Philadelphia would want, may be far too much.

Some team is likely to take the gamble that Marlon Byrd will be able to continue to perform at this level. However, this is one player that the Royals should pass on acquiring.