KC Royals Farm Futures: Prospects could force outfield discussion

It was a big week in the KC Royals’ kingdom, but flying under the radar are two outfielders crushing it in winter leagues.

Between the signing of Carlos Santana and the announcement of two new minor league affiliates, it has been a busy week for the KC Royals. The play of two outfielders in their respective winter leagues should have your attention as well, and may force a serious discussion about the 2021 outfield.

While it’s not deep into the season yet, Seuly Matias is off to a great start for the Gigantes del Ciabo. In eight at-bats he has two doubles, a home run, and a .375 average.

Particularly impressive is the opposite field power he displayed on his blast. While he showed off this skill in 2018, it is good to see him not strictly dependent on pulling the ball, which could keep the opposition using an exaggerated shift against him.

As a potential Rule 5 loss, the Royals were fortunate another team did not draft him. He is probably not ready for a major league role but having another year to evaluate him is huge. He is only 22 years old and could help the outfield situation sooner than later.

Recent 40-man addition also doing well

The KC Royals did protect Khalil Lee by adding him to the 40-man roster. He is a player who with a decent spring could slide onto the major league roster next year.

Playing for Indios de Mayaquez in Puerto Rico, he is slashing .250/.368/500 in 19 plate appearances. The batting average may not impress you, but his ability to get on base is huge.

In the minors, Lee has averaged a .366 on base percentage. Add that to the 53 bases in stole in 2019 and you have the makings of a legitimate top of the lineup threat.