KC Royals: Why Cheslor Cuthbert Will Replace Terrance Gore

May 3, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Royals third baseman Mike Moustakas (8) connects for a two run single in the ninth inning to tie the game against the Washington Nationals at Kauffman Stadium. The Royals won 7-6. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

3.) Mike Moustakas Has A Sore Thumb

Moose sat out on both Monday and Tuesday, despite being one of two hitters exceeding expectations on a sputtering KC Royals offense that needs all the help it can get. On Tuesday, Ned Yost admitted that Moustakas was suffering with a sore thumb and wanted to rest his third baseman. However, Yost was forced to use Moustakas as a pinch hitter at a critical point of Tuesday’s three-run, ninth-inning rally for a walk-off win.

On Wednesday, Yost told the press Moustakas’ thumb was still sore.

With Moose still hurting, one can imagine that Yost would like to give him more rest over the next few weeks. While utility infield Christian Colon can play third base, he’s not hitting so far this season (.200/.273/.250).

Yuck.

Enter Cheslor Cuthbert. He has been primarily a third baseman in his career, who has also filled in at first base. He’d be a better Moustakas substitute than Christian Colon over the long term, since Colon has much more experience as a middle infielder than he does at third base.

In his short trial with the Kansas City Royals last season, Cuthbert showed a strong arm and quick hands around third base. He looked ready for a big-league job at age 22 last season. He’s showed even more polish in the opening month of play at Omaha.

The last thing Ned Yost wants to do is play Moustakas into a season-long nagging injury when you’ve got a third-sacker who can help waiting for an opportunity in the big leagues.

Next: Reason No. 4

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