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
This week, we discuss the return of Heliot Ramos to a crowded lineup situation in San Francisco, and the playing time outlook for prospects throughout the NL West.
Jun 27 2026 3:06am
Jun 27 2026 3:06am
Andrew Painter must hone his technique back in the minors before we can expect to see any MLB masterworks. Plus: 3B in WAS; SP in ATL; C/DH in MIA; 2B at NYM; more.
Jun 26 2026 9:56am
Jun 26 2026 9:56am
The Cubs are hoping Peterson can help stabilize a rotation battered by injuries.
Jun 26 2026 3:05am
Jun 26 2026 3:05am
Journeyman Ryan Kreidler appears to be taking over at SS for the Twins. Plus, bullpen problems in Chicago, checking in on CJ Kayfus and Bo Naylor in CLE, a possible six-man rotation in DET, and Matthew Lugo tearing it up in Triple-A for KC.
Jun 25 2026 3:05am
Jun 25 2026 3:05am
Denzer Guzman has helped shake up the infield in Anaheim and may be locking down a regular role at 3B.
Jun 24 2026 3:05am
Jun 24 2026 3:05am
