Orioles Could Trade $8.7 Million All-Star Cedric Mullins to Royals in Midseason Deal
The Kansas City Royals are in desperate need of outfield help, a reality that’s become painfully clear to anyone following the team this season.
Through 38 games, the Royals’ outfielders have combined for a -1.0 fWAR, the worst in Major League Baseball. While some internal improvements are expected (looking at you, Jonathan India), a trade could be a necessary solution as the season progresses.
With the expanded playoff format keeping more teams in contention, the list of sellers at the trade deadline continues to shrink. However, if the Baltimore Orioles’ season continues to unravel, one writer suggests the Royals could have an ideal trade target.
In a recent article, Newsweek‘s Andrew Wright highlighted Orioles center fielder Cedric Mullins as a potential trade piece for the Royals this summer. Mullins, a 2021 American League All-Star, is set to hit free agency this winter.
“After a hot start, Mullins has fallen into a 2-for-29 slump. There’s still time for him to turn things around, and he’ll need to improve to solidify his trade value,” Wright wrote. “If Mullins becomes available, the Royals should immediately try to strike a deal.”
At 30 years old, Mullins is known for his strong defense in center field and provides at least an average bat. In contrast, Kansas City’s Kyle Isbel has struggled with the bat, likely best suited as a fourth outfielder and defensive replacement.
If Mullins can maintain an OPS around .815, he remains a legitimate star in center field. However, the Orioles may need to fall deep in the standings by the end of July for a trade involving Mullins to even be on the table.
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