Team’s Dilemma
The Kansas City Royals approach their Opening Day roster decisions with an urgent need for renewed outfield power. With crucial roster decisions on the horizon, the team faces a difficult choice for a player whose potential has not translated into consistent performance.
Velázquez’s Rollercoaster Season
At 26, outfielder and designated hitter Nelson Velázquez once showed promise after joining the team in 2023. In his initial stint with the Royals, he launched 14 home runs in just 40 games, indicating the potential to become a key player in the lineup. However, his recent season has been marked by significant struggles. Spending most of the year in Triple-A and missing out on the playoff roster, Velázquez’s performance has declined sharply.
Spring Training Concerns
As spring training unfolds, Velázquez’s current numbers raise serious doubts about his role. His batting line, registering around a .150 average with a modest on-base and slugging percentage, is accompanied by disappointing metrics such as a 76.6 MPH average exit velocity and a hard-hit rate of only 12.5% among the few contact instances. Limited opportunities at the plate have underscored the team’s reservations about giving him more chances. The situation is further complicated by his status as a player who cannot be sent back to the minor leagues.
A Pivotal Moment for the Future
The Royals’ latest roster projections for Opening Day did not include Velázquez among the outfield options. This decision exposes him to potential waivers, trades, or an outright release. For Velázquez, this spring represents a critical turning point in his career. The challenge now is to prove that his powerful right-handed bat can still be a decisive factor in a season that could redefine his future with the team.
