Are Pratto's days at first numbered?

Following the departure of Eric Hosmer, the Royals have been searching for a long-term replacement at first base. The team brought in several short-term solutions, including Lucas Duda, Ryan O'Hearn, and Carlos Santana. After the Santana era ended, it seemed they had found a potential successor in Nick Pratto. However, that may not be the case.
During the 2022 season, the Royals traded first baseman Carlos Santana to the Mariners, opening the door for 11th-round draft pick Vinnie Pasquantino to take over the position. Pasquantino didn’t simply inherit the role; he had to earn it. Pratto had an impressive spring training in 2024, but the Royals ultimately decided to go with Pasquantino. Toward the end of spring training, manager Matt Quatraro explained the decision: "Nick had a phenomenal spring. It was just a bit of a logjam. He can do other things and play in the outfield, but right now, that opportunity is not there. He did everything he could possibly do this spring, and we just need him to continue that in Omaha. When the opportunity presents itself, or he forces our hand, we’ll call him up."
So where does that leave Nick Pratto? The 2024 season has been exciting for both fans and players, with a few exceptions, such as outfielder MJ Melendez. Melendez struggled at the start of the season, hitting below the Mendoza line with an average of .196 and striking out 75 times. Both the Royals and fans hoped his struggles wouldn’t extend into the second half of the season, but unfortunately, they did. Despite a disappointing season overall, Melendez managed to hit 17 home runs and record 44 RBIs. However, his slight resurgence may not secure him a spot in left or right field next season.
Hunter Renfroe has the option to opt out of his current deal with the Royals at the end of the season, though it is unlikely he will do so. This situation presents a potential opportunity for Pratto, especially in light of Melendez’s struggles and the possibility of Renfroe opting out. Pratto has both minor league and major league experience in left and right field, having played a combined 54 games in the outfield with the Storm Chasers and the Royals.
Currently, Pratto's path to first base is blocked by Pasquantino. However, injuries have hindered Pasquantino's performance this season, leading to Salvador Perez and Yuli Gurriel filling in at first base. Pasquantino, 26, has played 264 games at the big league level but has faced significant injury challenges. Last season, he suffered a torn labrum in his right shoulder, limiting him to just 61 games. This season, he has encountered multiple injuries, including a significant contusion to a nerve in his leg after a collision with a Twins outfielder on May 28.
Despite Pasquantino's talent, ongoing injuries could create an opening for Pratto at first base. However, it may be more prudent for Pratto to focus on the outfield as the offseason approaches, while also continuing to work at first base in case of another injury to Pasquantino.
With Pasquantino likely securing first base for the foreseeable future, and the Royals not trading him at the deadline, the question remains: where does that leave Pratto in the team’s long-term plans?








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