KC Royals: Top Trade Targets To Replace Alex Gordon

Jun 30, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Milwaukee Brewers center fielder Carlos Gomez (27) losses his helmet while swinging at a pitch during the eighth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park. The Brewers defeated the Phillies, 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

I initially overlooked Carlos Gomez because I conflated him with the Rockies Carlos Gonzalez—whom I disregarded because of the $37 million due him over the next two years and his subpar performance the last two seasons.

Until, that is, a fan on Twitter asked me this:

I felt pretty stupid when I didn’t have a good answer for him. So, I added Gomez to my list.

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Twenty-nine year old Carlos Gomez is an excellent trade target to fill-in for Alex Gordon. He plays for a sure seller, is in the final year of his contract, and he brings significant pop to the plate.

Gomez is slashing .274/.323/.451 for the Brewers this season with 16 doubles, 8 home runs, and 36 RBIs. In the three seasons from 2012 through 2014, Gomez slammed 66 home runs and stole 111 bases. Though both his speed and power are down this season from his recent standards, he’s still a middle of the order stick that should be available at the deadline.

Carlos Gomez is a slightly below average defender with an Ultimate Zone Rating of -0.2,  but that’s as a centerfielder for the Brewers. I’d expect his range to compare much better against corner outfielders—which is where he’d play in Kansas City.

The problem with Gomez is that he is a right-handed hitter that won’t replace Gordon’s left-handed bat. Even so, his range and power could help the Kansas City Royals even after Alex Gordon returns—if Alex Rios fails to turn his season around.

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