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The Royals have selected infielder Nicky Lopez for Triple-A Omaha, and Whit Merrifield will play second base, according to Alec Lewis of The Athletic. Lopez had a tough spring, hitting just 0.118 with 13 strikeouts in 39 home plate appearances. He was trying to rework his spring to get more contact after hitting just .228 / .279 / .307 in 594 appearances on the flat in the past two seasons. Lopez was a Gold Glove finalist last year on second base, but at the start of this season the job will go to Whit Merrifield.
With Merrifield on second goal recently, Lopez hasn’t played since Wednesday.
Matheny: “We had a few conversations, knowing that we have a little time to put his swing in the right place. He has been working for several days and has made good progress.” #Kings
– Anne Rogers (@anne__rogers) March 28, 2021
With Merrifield back on second base, that leaves an opening in right field, which would strongly imply that Kyle Isbel is part of the squad. Isbel had a strong spring, batting .341, including a three-down brace in this afternoon’s game against the Rockies. Manager Mike Matheny said this week that Isbel was “in the mix” and the team wanted to see him in the last exhibition games.
Kyle Isbel’s 105.5 mph double from the 3rd inning. I feel like we’re going to see this in Kansas City soon ….. pic.twitter.com/lxraPG4Tvr
– Royals Farm Report (@RoyalsFarm) March 28, 2021
The Royals have also spoken to Hunter Dozier about his return to the right field, especially when Bobby Witt, Jr. is set to join the Big League club. It is possible that Dozier will move to the right pitch with Hanser Alberto to play third base. Either way, it looks like the offense should improve, and this is another clear indicator that the Royals intend to focus on winning, rather than waiting for players. Are growing. Lopez may still have a future as a big leaguer, but the Royals don’t feel the luxury of spending an entire season waiting for him to find out.
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