KC Royals: Will Royals Part Ways With Edinson Volquez?

Should The Royals Make Volquez A Qualifying Offer?

Now we come to the sticky part. The KC Royals could then decide to make Volquez a qualifying offer, which will require a one-year, $16.7 million contract. That choice would attach draft pick compensation to Volquez. But, losing a pick could drive down Volquez’s value to the point where he might accept the qualifying offer.

Tying $16.7 million up in Volquez could prevent the KC Royals from bringing back either Kendrys Morales or re-signing closer Greg Holland. To my mind, keeping Morales’ 28 dingers and lefty bat in the lineup is more important than Volquez. Shoring up the bullpen is an absolute must as well. Kansas City will need its three-headed bullpen monster back in 2017.

When push comes to shove, Edinson Volquez is expendable. The Kansas City Royals have Danny Duffy, Ian Kennedy, and Yordano Ventura under contract for 2017. Jason Vargas will be in the last year of his deal at $8 million. KC also has Mike Minor signed for $ 4.0 million in 2017.

Thus, the KC Royals do have five experienced starters for 2017. The problem is: just how certain are they that Mike Minor can pitch next season?

More from Kings of Kauffman

• Grading the 2022 KC Royals: The $25 million man
• KC Royals Winter Meetings Tracker: Expectations met
• KC Royals Winter Meetings Tracker: Day 3 update
• KC Royals Winter Meetings Tracker: Day 2 update
• Winter Meetings: Any blockbusters for the KC Royals?

The medical staff expected Minor to return in June from shoulder surgery to repair his torn labrum. Minor suffered multiple setbacks in his rehab before Kansas City shut him down for the season. Behind those top five, the Kansas City Royals have prospects Matt Strahm and Josh Staumont who might be ready for a rotation spot.

Heck, Kyle Zimmer could get into the picture as well. But, relying on Zimmer to eat regular innings after Thoracic Outlet Syndrome surgery is a gamble. He’s struggled with injuries his entire professional career.

If the KC Royals feel good about Mike Minor’s chances to return, and the recent progress of Matt Strahm and Josh Staumont, they could let Volquez walk.