KC Royals Potential Departures, Vol. 2: Lorenzo Cain

Mar 19, 2017; Mesa, AZ, USA; Kansas City Royals center fielder Lorenzo Cain (6) stumbles after avoiding a pitch against the Chicago Cubs during the third inning at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

So are you advocating committing long-term years and grande dollars to a 31-year old centerfielder? Or letting him walk? Or flipping him before the deadline?

Keep him. Of the potential free agents, Cain has always made the most sense to retain. He would bridge the gap to the next generation of KC Royals. Unless one of the aforementioned potential suitors really elects to go all-in, Cain should retire a Royal.

Likelihood of being traded: 40 percent

Return on Investment (if traded): 2-3 prospects, one significant value, or one ready-to-play piece and one mid-level prospect.

Example One: Washington Nationals deal SS Carter Kieboom (No. 3 according to MLB Pipeline), C Spencer Kieboom (No. 30) and LHP Braulio Lara for Cain.

Example Two: LA Dodgers trade LHP Alex Wood and RHP Trevor Oaks for Cain.

Next: Vol. 1: Vargy

Future Contract: Five years, $70 million

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