Ryan Jackson, We Hardly Knew Ye

When the Kansas City Royals signed Edinson Volquez, Kris Medlen, Alex Rios and Kendrys Morales, we knew roster changes would be forthcoming. Indeed, the Royals designated players such as Moises Sierra and Johnny Giavotella for assignment, clearing up room for these newer players. As the New Year dawned, all that was left was to find a roster spot for Volquez once his signing became official.

Well, now we know who will be removed from the Royals 40 man roster to make room for Volquez. Ryan Jackson, who was acquired by the Royals for cash considerations (incidentally, I think that would be a great name for a Johnny Cash cover band) just over a month ago, was sent packing. Guess the Royals didn’t spend that much to get him.

This move actually shows how far the Royals have come. By removing Jackson from the 40 man roster this soon after getting him, it proves that they have the roster depth where they do not need to fill spaces with former top prospects in the hope they catch lightning in a bottle. The Royals now have the pieces they need to compete, instead of hoping that these waiver wire acquisitions can somehow be more than they ever showed.

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Ryan Jackson could still find his way on to the 40 man roster at some point. If he slides through waivers unclaimed, he could still make enough of an impact as a non-roster invitee to Spring Training where he could force his way back onto the roster. Depending on how Christian Colon performs, the Royals may still have need of a utility infielder, and Jackson could be that.

Yet, the Royals do not need to count on Jackson. They no longer need to have that former top prospect improve enough where he warrants a chance, just to have enough major league talent. Those days are long gone, and it is truly a joy to behold.

Despite that, I know we will look back at the Ryan Jackson Era in Kansas City with the utmost fondness and appreciation for what he meant to the Royals and their chances of improvement. Jackson may be gone, but he will not soon be forgotten.

Ryan Jackson, we hardly knew ye. But in the grand scheme of things, that may not be that bad after all.