As the first week of spring training unfolds, the crack of bats and the pop of gloves fill the air, yet for Royals fans, there’s a lingering sense that something is amiss. The team’s lineup still feels incomplete, and the search for a right-handed hitting outfielder continues. All winter, the buzz was that the front office would land that one missing piece—a power bat to deepen the lineup. But here we are, with spring games on the horizon, and that move remains elusive. But here's where it gets intriguing: despite the ticking clock, there’s still time to make a splash. J.J. Picollo, the Royals’ decision-maker, recently hinted to Anne Rogers of MLB.com that the team remains open to adding a right-handed bat. “It’s about finding the right fit for our roster,” Picollo explained. “Right-handed hitters are a bit easier to integrate, while left-handed additions would require a more significant shift, given our current lineup dynamics.” With six weeks until Opening Day, the question isn’t whether the Royals need another bat—it’s whether they’ll pull the trigger. Below, we explore some outfielders who could be on the trade block, especially if their teams are in the market for pitching. But first, let’s dive into the options—and this is the part most people miss: each of these players brings a unique blend of potential and risk that could either elevate the Royals or leave fans scratching their heads.
Jo Adell, Angels
Adell had a breakout 2023, crushing 37 home runs—the ninth-most in baseball. Yet, his game is almost entirely power-driven: low average, few walks, and high strikeouts. Still, his pop is exactly what the Royals crave, and at 26 with two years until free agency, he’s a tempting target. His defense in centerfield was abysmal last year, but a move to left field could soften that concern. The Angels could capitalize on his value now, but don’t expect them to demand top prospects for a player with just a 1.2 rWAR. Is Adell worth the gamble, or is his one-dimensional game a red flag?
Jonny DeLuca, Rays
DeLuca is a wildcard—a young talent with untapped potential. Acquired in the Tyler Glasnow trade, he struggled in his first extended MLB stint, hitting just .217/.278/.331 in 2024. Injuries limited him to 20 games last year, but his minor league numbers hint at power, speed, and a keen eye. His defense is solid, but his lack of MLB production might make him too much of a project for the Royals. Could he be the diamond in the rough, or is he a risk too far?
Jasson Domínguez, Yankees
Domínguez, once a top prospect, had a mixed rookie season, hitting .257/.331/.388 with 10 homers and 23 steals. At 23, his switch-hitting and potential as a 30/30 player are tantalizing, but his defense needs work. With the Yankees’ crowded outfield, he could be expendable if they need pitching. Is Domínguez the high-ceiling player the Royals need, or is he still too raw?
Brenton Doyle, Rockies
A two-time Gold Glover, Doyle’s bat has been a rollercoaster. After a solid 2024, he plummeted to .233/.274/.376 in 2025, with especially brutal road numbers. However, his performance against lefties and Coors Field’s quirks suggest there’s more to the story. With three years of control, the Rockies might wait for his value to rebound, but a new GM could shake things up. Is Doyle’s defensive prowess enough to outweigh his offensive inconsistencies?
Ramón Laureano, Padres
Laureano, 31, had a career year in 2023, hitting .281/.342/.512 with 24 homers. Yet, his inconsistency and injury history are concerns. At $6.5 million, he’s affordable, but his poor defense and declining numbers in 2022-23 make him a risky bet. Is he a bargain buy, or a fading star?
Jake Meyers, Astros
Meyers, a Nebraska native, broke out in 2025 with a .292/.354/.373 line and stellar defense. However, his lack of power and high BABIP raise questions about sustainability. With the Astros needing pitching, a deal could make sense, but is he the impact bat the Royals seek? Does Meyers’ defense and speed make up for his lack of pop?
Coby Mayo, Orioles
Mayo, primarily an infielder, is getting outfield reps this spring. Ranked as the #14 prospect in 2025, his MLB debut was underwhelming (.217/.299/.388), but he showed promise against lefties. His potential is undeniable, but he’s far from a sure thing. Is Mayo a high-reward gamble worth taking?
Ryan Mountcastle, Orioles
Once a power hitter, Mountcastle’s production has slipped, with a career-worst OPS+ of 83 last year. His $6.7 million salary makes him a potential bargain, but his decline is hard to ignore. Is he a low-risk, high-reward pickup, or a player past his prime?
Heliot Ramos, Giants
An All-Star in 2024, Ramos has hit 20+ homers in back-to-back seasons. However, his defense in left field has been atrocious, dragging down his overall value. At 26 with three years of control, he could be moved if the Giants promote Drew Gilbert. Is Ramos’ offensive upside enough to overlook his defensive liabilities?
Spencer Steer, Reds
Steer has hit 20+ homers for three straight years, but his wRC+ has dipped annually. His road struggles and low BABIP are concerning, yet his walk rate and power remain intriguing. With Sal Stewart knocking on the door, Steer could be expendable. Can Steer rebound, or is his decline irreversible?
Mark Vientos, Mets
Vientos, a power-hitting infielder, might find a new home in the outfield. His 27 homers in 2024 dropped to 17 in 2025, and his defense is a liability. At 26 with three years of control, he’s a high-risk, high-reward option. Is Vientos the power bat the Royals need, or a defensive liability they can’t afford?
The Bigger Question: With so many options, each carrying its own risks and rewards, which player—if any—should the Royals target? And more importantly, should they make a move at all, or wait for internal solutions to emerge? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—who would you trade for, and why?
