Kansas City Royals Potential Breakout Prospects

Corey Toups

Unlike players like Carlos Garcia and Terrance Gore who have to rely upon their speed to get their extra base hits, Coery Toups has the potential to be someone who can blend both his speed and still have extra base power in his bat.

Another second baseman who could be on the fast track if he continues to develop, Toups had an excellent year for the Lexington Legends, producing a .291/.369/.441 batting line. His 31 stolen bases were tied for fourth in the Royals minor leagues, and he ranked third in runs scored (75) and eighth in doubles (27). Toups even added five triples and seven home runs while showing a solid batting eye, as his 44 walks were seventh in the Royals farm system.

With Garcia as a possible future option at second base as well, Toups played 36 games at shortstop last season. While he may never lead anyone to forget about Alcides Escobar on defense, adding another position to his profile can only help as he looks to ascend the Royals organizational ladder. Of course, should Toups continue to hit and showcase his impressive speed, the Royals may well find a place for him in their lineup in the coming years regardless.

Corey Toups may not be a prospect that is attracting a lot of attention now, but another strong minor league campaign could push him in to the Kansas City Royals future plans, potentially competing with Garcia to put an end to the revolving door at second base.

Next: Needs to work on his command