Outfield Moves

Today the Royals solidified their outfield by optioning Aaron Guiel to AAA Omaha and naming Shane Costa to the roster.

Guiel made a strong bid for the roster by playing well since returning to camp after playing with Canada in the World Baseball Classic. However, the Royals decided to give the spot to Costa instead.

Costa was in Kansas City for a short time last season, and frankly, he looked overmatched. He finished the season with a .235 average. His OBP was .287 and his SLG was .333.

By comparison, Guiel batted .294 with an OBP of .355 and a SLG of .450 in 2005. Over his career, Guiel has proven himself as a scrappy fighter who always was on the fringe. His vision problems last season caused him to fall out of favor and Guiel never has been able to fight his way back.

Obviously, the Royals like the youth of 24 year old Costa and see more upside in him. Guiel was optioned to AAA Omaha, but the Royals will release him if he desires to seek employment elsewhere.

The fourth outfielder spot isn't necessarily a position that will make or break the Royals this season, so we here at Breaking 100 aren't sure this move will make much of a difference either way. Like all things, it remains to be seen.

Let's go get 'em.