MLB Rumors: 2 Kansas City Royals Expected To Be Traded in 2022

The Kansas City Royals once again find themselves near the bottom of the American League standings as the Royals have started slow in 2022, to a record of 14-28. Injuries have already taken a toll on the lineup and expectation is if things continue to go off the rails, expect to see the Royals making moves.

Two Royals who are expected to be actively shopped on the trade market include 1B/DH Carlos Santana and outfielder Andrew Benintendi. The 36-year-old Santana has slowed down in recent years after being a dominant hitter for a long time. The veteran has appeared in 30 games this season, collecting two HR, hitting in 10 runners, while walking 20 times compared to only 16 strikeouts. His .167 average is losing steam by the day, meanwhile his .303 OBP ranks him near the top of his team.

Meanwhile Benintendi, who is also under team control through 2022, has played in all 42 games this season and has also hit two HR, with 18 RBI and an impressive .327 batting average, while supplying some slick defense in the outfield. The 27-year-old would be a hot commodity for a playoff bound team and expect to see a number of contenders circling the Royals dugout.

Mark Feinsand of MLB.com had these two Royals on his trade radar before the season began and had this to say on the movement expected from Kansas City:

The Royals made some sly moves this winter in an effort to contend in the AL Central, but Kansas City still appears to be behind the White Sox, Twins and even the Tigers in the division. Benintendi won a Gold Glove last season and is in his final year before free agency, while Santana -- who had a disappointing 2021 campaign -- could be a solid veteran pickup if he’s able to bounce back this year.

Keep an eye on the Royals. They won't be contending in the AL central and some trades are expected before the non-waiver deadline.