It's time for the KC Royals to address the Vinnie Pasquantino question

Should Kansas City extend its slugging first baseman?
Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
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Vinnie Pasquantino's status as a fan favorite strengthens his case

Production is vital, but popularity also matters. Popular players drive more ticket sales than those hometown fans dislike, lovable players put ticket buyers in stadium seats more often, and fans tend to spend a lot of money on food, drink, souvenirs, and other ballpark amenities when their favorite team's roster features popular big leaguers.

As such, likable players can command more money when they emphasize production and popularity during contract negotiations. Bobby Witt Jr., who signed the richest extension in Royals history, and Salvador Pérez, who owns the most mutually advantageous contract extension in club history (Witt Jr. will someday claim that honor) probably wouldn't have pulled down quite the compensation they did if they weren't so popular with the fans and community.

So what about Pasquantino? He may not occupy quite the same level on the popularity scale as Witt Jr. and Pérez, but he's close. It took him no time at all to endear himself to the club, its fans, and Kansas City, he's a magnetic social media personality, and he speaks well and at length about the club, his teammates, and everything Royal.

Popularity? You bet.

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