Nothing to lose with Hampson signing


The Royals first big league signing this offseason was back in November when Garrett Hampson signed a one-year deal worth $2 million guaranteed. Kansas City fans weren't thrilled with Hampson signing. In fact, fans were super negative when the news broke. They went to X to vent on the Hampson signing. Fans made comments like: "unserious franchise", "So sad, this organization thinks a player like this will make a difference. Really sad, sad for the fans to follow a team like this!" Fans must give Hampson a chance in a Royals uniform. Last season with Miami, Hampson had the best season of his career. The 29-year old appeared in 98 games and played multiple positions such as outfield, second base, shortstop, and third base. The utility player posted career high numbers with the Marlins. Kansas City has a history of signing players with elite speed such as Jarrod Dyson, Billy Hamilton, and Michael A. Taylor and Hampson has solid wheels. The Royals heading into spring training have a few positions up for grabs such as the bullpen and possibly second base. According to Royals beat writer Anne Rogers: "That said, it won’t be surprising for Quatraro to mix and match at second base. Massey is a lefty, and the two backup options listed below are righties.” The baseball season is a long one, injuries happen, and everyday players need a break from time to time. The bench should have a veteran player that can play solid defense in the infield and in the outfield. Kauffman Stadium has one of the largest outfields in the big leagues, meaning speed is an important piece in the Royals style of baseball. Hampson got most of his playing time at shortstop in 29 games played. The utility player played in 14 games at the other infield positions other than catcher, pitcher and first base. Hampson does come up in the clutch when it matters most when a hit is needed, unlike Chris Owings a few seasons ago as a bench player.  Finally, Hampson will help the Royals win games one way or another, rather than playing in the game as a defensive replacement or as a pinch runner late in games. Next season will definitely be an exciting one to watch with the teams’ multiple additions through trades and free agency this offseason.


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