PT TOMORROW: AL Central—Could Cain conquer leadoff?
May 24 2017
The Royals are last in MLB in runs scored, and part of it can be blamed on a stunning lack of production at leadoff. They started 2017 with Alex Gordon (OF, KC), who went 12-for-68 with 4 BB, then moved on to Whit Merrifield (2B, KC), who was worse at 5-for-40 and one BB. The team then went retro with 2016 table-setter Alcides Escobar (SS, KC), who still takes few walks and is 11-for-64 with 1 BB and 15 K at the top of the order. Is it time for a change?
Lorenzo Cain (OF, KC; pictured above) has fared well from the third slot, batting .306 in 121 AB. He's induced 16 BB at No. 3 and 22 walks in 183 PA overall. It's possible that his 5% leap in bb% from 2016 may be due to an early lack of protection from cleanup hitter
Almost!
You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!
Already a subscriber? Sign in here
More From PT Tomorrow
With a number of position battles still underway in the NL West, extra spring training reps for competing players may be the difference between a regular role in the show and a possible trip back to the minors.
Mar 7 2026 3:10am
Mar 7 2026 3:10am
It's time for the World Baseball Classic; who will see more playing time while players represent their countries in the tournament?
Mar 6 2026 3:05am
Mar 6 2026 3:05am
Sal Perez's absence for the WBC could mean it's Carter Jensen's time to shine in Royals camp. Plus, looks at WBC impacts on all AL Central rosters.
Mar 5 2026 3:10am
Mar 5 2026 3:10am
With players leaving camp to play in the WBC, who could gain some playing time increases in the AL West?
Mar 4 2026 3:10am
Mar 4 2026 3:10am
A rejuvenated Eloy Jiménez has stood out in early Grapefruit League action and should continue to get at-bats with many Toronto regulars playing in the WBC. Plus, more WBC fallout from around the division.
Mar 3 2026 3:03am
Mar 3 2026 3:03am
