Kansas City Royals: Looking at Forever Royal Candidates

Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Mike Moustakas and Eric Hosmer

Both Mike Moustakas and Eric Hosmer have been linked together for some time with the Kansas City Royals. The two corner infielders were expected to be the pillars of the Royals offense, developing into two power hitters that could be true game changers. While they have had their flashes, particularly in the postseason, both could still be considered minor disappointments.

Yet, both Moustakas and Hosmer have value for the Royals. Both players are still power threats in the lineup. Hosmer is a Gold Glove first baseman, often making the infield look even better by his ability to dig out throws in the dirt.

Moustakas, while not quite as good defensively, has still developed into a solid defensive third baseman. After all, who can forget his dive over the railing to catch that pop foul?

Even though both players may well be starting to reach their potential, and could be interesting candidates for a long-term extension, there is one thing standing in the way:

Scott Boras. Boras is notorious for having his player go to free agency, where he finds ways to twisting statistics and numbers to make his players seem to be the second coming of Barry Bonds and Ty Cobb, only without the anger issues. Long-term extensions with small market teams just are not his thing.

Even if the Kansas City Royals want to keep both Mike Moustakas and Eric Hosmer around as career Royals, it may be highly unlikely. Unless, of course, one or both change their agent.

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