Kansas City Royals Prospects: Who’s Hot, Who’s Not

Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports

Lexington Legends: Offense

Hot: Chad Johnson

Not to be confused with the former NFL player who changed his name to OchoCinco or the goalie on the Islanders, this Chad Johnson is a catcher in the Kansas City Royals system. Entering his third season as a part of the Legends, Johnson has swung the bat well, potentially showing that he may be ready to move up in the next few months.

Through the first week, the Legends catcher has produced a .500/.611/.714 batting line with three doubles. Johnson is even displaying an improved batting eye, walking four times in 18 plate appearances. While he is not likely to hit at that rate, if Johnson can keep that batting average around .300 after the first couple of months, a promotion may be in order.

Not: Brandon Downes

Making the leap from the Pioneer League to the South Atlantic League has been a difficult transition for Brandon Downes thus far. After performing well for Idaho Falls, Downes has two hits in 23 plate appearances, striking out ten times while drawing a walk.

The Kansas City Royals seventh round pick last season, Downes may just be struggling with the difference in competition thus far. Going from a short season league to a full season minor league team can be one of the more difficult transitions. As the season goes on, hopefully Downes will be able to make the adjustments needed and replicate his success last season.

Next: Power arms everywhere!