Melendez transitioning well to outfield role

Kansas City prioritized adding to their outfield this past offseason, accomplishing that with the acquisition of Hunter Renfroe. Both centerfield and leftfield were contested positions during spring training. Leftfield, in my view, presented the fiercest competition among the outfield spots up for grabs, reflecting the broader competitive atmosphere across various positions at the time. While there was some contention for the centerfield role, Isbel emerged as the favorite and secured the position. Leftfield, however, unfolded differently.
Heading into spring training, the Royals saw several players vying for the leftfield spot, including Nelson Velázquez, Drew Waters, and Dairon Blanco. Waters posed significant competition for MJ Melendez, with Velázquez primarily known for his play in right field. Although Waters seemed poised to clinch the leftfield position, his batting struggles from the previous season persisted into spring. The 25-year-old posted a respectable batting average of .276 but struck out 12 times in 32 plate appearances. Beyond this spring performance, Waters maintains a career line of .231 in 398 at-bats, with 13 home runs and 50 RBIs.
Comparing Waters and Melendez reveals a considerable gap, despite Waters' outfield experience. Melendez's transition to the outfield was a departure from his minor league trajectory. Originally drafted as a catcher by the Royals in 2017, Melendez struggled to secure consistent playing time behind star catcher Salvador Perez. Despite falling short in the catcher role, Melendez excelled in Double-A and Triple-A in 2021, smashing a combined 41 home runs.
Like Perez, Melendez boasts a powerful arm, but he also possesses notable speed, unlike Perez. Following a strong spring, Melendez assumed the leftfield role, adapting well to his new position. With a career .970 fielding percentage, many anticipate his defensive prowess will only improve with time. While some initially viewed Melendez as an average outfielder at best, he has proven doubters wrong.
Standing at 6'1" with above-average speed, Melendez's agility and athleticism defy expectations. As he grows more accustomed to outfield play, his speed may further increase. Melendez has surpassed expectations in leftfield, displaying a willingness to make daring plays, akin to Kyle Isbel.
While Melendez has fully transitioned to the outfield, he remains a viable backup catcher option for the Royals in case of injuries to Perez or Freddie Fermin. Although the likelihood of both Perez and Fermin sustaining simultaneous injuries is low, Perez's size and age make him more injury-prone. Melendez's continued improvement in the outfield will be pivotal for the Royals' long-term success, especially considering the expansive outfield at Kauffman Stadium and potentially at the new ballpark.






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