3 Reasons the Royals Need to Trade Whit Merrifield This Season

Whit Merrifield has been arguably the best player on the Royals for the past three seasons, and has quickly become a fan-favorite in Kansas City. However, for all the production he offers, Merrifield has been a victim of some lackluster Royals teams. With KC no closer to competing, it may be time to bite the bullet and offload the veteran infielder, and here are three reasons why.

3. Nicky Lopez's Fit

Kansas City Royals INF Nicky Lopez / Hannah Foslien/Getty Images

Is Nicky Lopez's development really worth moving Whit Merrifield for? While some may value the latter more, when it comes to defense, KC prioritized the former. After Lopez's promotion to the bigs, Merrifield bounced around a variety of positions, featuring in the outfield, at first base and at second base. If there's not an obvious fit for Whit, the Royals may be best moving on.

2. Timetable Doesn't Match KC's Rebuild

Kansas City Royals star Whit Merrifield / Daniel Shirey/Getty Images

As we mentioned earlier, KC in still deep into what could be a long rebuild. Merrifield, who turned 31 this offseason, simply doesn't fit into the team's longterm plans. By the time the Royals are ready to contend, Merrifield will be exiting his prime. Offloading him before his inevitable decline would be the best way for KC to support its rebuild.

1. Value is at its Highest

Kansas City Royals INF Whit Merrifield / Daniel Shirey/Getty Images

A player like Whit Merrifield could command a king's ransom on the trade market, considering he's under team control through 2023. KC won't be sniffing the postseason for at least a few seasons, so offloading Merrifield to aid the ongoing rebuild is the best possible move. Merrifield's value is only going to decrease from here on out as he gets older and his contract gets closer to its conclusion.