Royals Trade Jose Cuas for Former AFL MVP Nelson Velazquez

Velazaquez showcases some unreal raw power. He has accumulated some great numbers across the minor leagues, but the approach at the plate has really hampered his ability to find success at the major league level and stick as a corner outfielder.

Velazquez had a breakout and rose up prospect ranks when his 2021 Arizona Fall League performance won him the MVP. That fall, he slashed .385/.480/.712 with a 1.191 OPS and seven doubles, nine home runs, and 24 RBI.

Despite the lack of approach, Velazquez still does a good job at drawing walks and getting on base. Still only 24, the Royals likely see the opportunity to develop his bat into something more. They also were able to option him to Triple-A clearing another roster spot for others to get called up. 

These moves could be the first of a few coming into today’s trade deadline. The Royals still have closer Scott Barlow and left-handed starter Ryan Yarbrough who could draw some interest. I wouldn’t be surprised if reliever Taylor Clarke is also moved for a very small return.

Many teams seem to be asking about reliever Carlos Hernandez and starter Brady Singer, but the likelihood of either of them being moved doesn’t seem high unless the Royals are truly blown away. But hey, it could possibly happen with how much of a sellers market this deadline has seemed to be. Either way, Royals fans should temper expectations and expect it to continue to be a quieter deadline with small moves, unless the Royals decide to pull off some surprises.