MLB Rumors: Royals Outfielders Trade Markets Take A Hit

Among the position players on the trade market this month, one of the most sought-after has been Kansas City Royals' outfielder Andrew Benintendi. The left-handed hitter is batting .314, and has been linked to a number of teams. But that number could be dwindling now that he's been outed as unvaccinated.

This is beside the point, but that would put a damper on Andrew Benintendi's trade value, especially in the American League East.
— Andy McCullough (@ByMcCullough) July 13, 2022

The Toronto Blue Jays, for one, would be hard-pressed to employ a player who wouldn't be able to travel back and forth across the Canada/U.S. border. The Jays are desperate for an impact left-handed hitter, and Benintendi was thought to be on their radar. Until now.

The New York Yankees are another team that's been linked to Benintendi, as well as his Royals teammate, center fielder Michael A. Taylor. But as Yankees beat writer Joel Sherman notes, can they still consider acquiring those players if they aren't available for some games within their own division?

I viewed Benintendi and Taylor as players that should interest the Yankees in trades but how could you acquire anyone who at moment would not be able to play in the 3-game series in Toronto in September plus (more vital) if the clubs face each other in the playoffs? https://t.co/KuzTpMLcoq
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) July 13, 2022