PT TOMORROW: AL Central—Could Cain conquer leadoff?
May 24 2017
The Royals are last in MLB in runs scored, and part of it can be blamed on a stunning lack of production at leadoff. They started 2017 with Alex Gordon (OF, KC), who went 12-for-68 with 4 BB, then moved on to Whit Merrifield (2B, KC), who was worse at 5-for-40 and one BB. The team then went retro with 2016 table-setter Alcides Escobar (SS, KC), who still takes few walks and is 11-for-64 with 1 BB and 15 K at the top of the order. Is it time for a change?
Lorenzo Cain (OF, KC; pictured above) has fared well from the third slot, batting .306 in 121 AB. He's induced 16 BB at No. 3 and 22 walks in 183 PA overall. It's possible that his 5% leap in bb% from 2016 may be due to an early lack of protection from cleanup hitter
Almost!
You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!
Already a subscriber? Sign in here
More From PT Tomorrow
This week, we check in on young infielders with upside in S.F. and Arizona, are reintroduced to an old NL West friend in L.A.
Aug 29 2026 3:05am
Aug 29 2026 3:05am
Luke Adams, Cooper Hjerpe, Owen Ayers, and BJ Murray may be among the guys called up to make their MLB debut in the NL Central
Aug 28 2026 3:05am
Aug 28 2026 3:05am
Angel Genao has been getting plenty of playing time in Cleveland, often at the expense of Brayan Rocchio. Plus, the possible return of Drew Thorpe for CHW, the bullpen outlook in DET, Sal Perez's 2H rebound, and Joe Ryan's recovery in MIN.
Aug 27 2026 3:06am
Aug 27 2026 3:06am
The A's have been depleted by injuries, but are getting some needed outfield help soon.
Aug 26 2026 3:05am
Aug 26 2026 3:05am
Could George Springer's playing time continue to slip as his struggles continue? Plus, Blaze Alexander nearing a return for BAL, and rotation updates for TB, BOS, and NYY.
Aug 25 2026 3:05am
Aug 25 2026 3:05am
