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https://theathletic.com/2411534/2021...ox-jim-bowden/

MLB offseason grades for all 30 teams: Padres and Blue Jays ace it, Red Sox sputter, White Sox primed
by
Jim Bowden

Kansas City Royals
Grade: B

Trades: Acquired OF Andrew Benintendi from Red Sox, trading OF Khalil Lee to Mets and two PTBNL to Red Sox in a three-way deal
Free agents: LHP Mike Minor, 2 years/$18 million; 1B/DH Carlos Santana 2 years/$17.5 million; CF Michael A. Taylor, 1 year/$1.75 million; RHP Greg Holland, 1 year/$2.75 million

The Royals did an impressive job of improving their lineup, highlighted by the signing of free-agent first baseman Carlos Santana and the trade for outfielder Andrew Benintendi. Santana is a much-needed bat for the middle of the order, and his ability to work a count and draw walks will be a helpful influence as the young Royals hitters develop. But the Royals’ best move of the offseason was landing Benintendi, 26, who profiles as a 20 home run, 20 stolen base, above-average defensive left fielder when he’s fully developed. They added free agent Michael A. Taylor to play center field. He’s an above-average defender who has power and speed but also a high strikeout rate that’s not going away.

The Royals also did an excellent job of acquiring veteran pitchers Mike Minor, Greg Holland and Wade Davis on club-friendly contracts. All three should contribute. With a young, developing rotation and the additions they made this offseason, don’t be surprised if the Royals finish in third place in the AL Central, ahead of the Indians. To cap things off, earlier this week the Royals agreed to a four-year extension with third baseman Hunter Dozier.