Seattle Mariners Prospect Trade Target List: AL Central

Kansas City Royals

Ty’s pick: LHP Kris Bubic

Just like the Tigers, the Royals are in no position to start shipping off their prospects, especially ones like Kris Bubic. The difference between the Tigers and Royals, however, is that Kansas City currently poses one of the worst farm systems in all of baseball. They desperately need talent, and selling one of their better prospects sounds less than ideal.

Ignoring that for the sake of the article, if there is somehow a way for the Mariners to acquire Bubic, I’d be absolutely ecstatic. The 40th overall selection of the 2018 MLB Draft has turned heads in his first full season with the Royals’ organization, leading all Low-A pitchers in strikeouts with 75.

For Bubic, the success stems from a great balance of a low-90s fastball with movement and a plus changeup that consistently deceives opposing hitters. When he’s not missing bats entirely, he’s generating weak contact.

Perhaps the most encouraging aspect of Bubic’s 2019 campaign has been the improvement shown on his curveball. He’s proved that he can survive without it, but if he can get the curve working for him on a consistent basis, that could change his entire outlook moving forward.

Colby’s pick: OF Kyle Isbel

The Royals are highly unlikely to be selling prospects this July, especially guys like Kyle Isbel. But if a deal could be struck, Isbel is exactly the type of player Dipoto should target. A third-round pick of 2018, Isbel is already in High-A ball.

He is a good athlete, possessing plus speed and above-average defense in the outfield. The Royals have played with the idea of moving Isbel to second, a position he did play in college. Isbel also has an above-average bat, though it is more of a line drive swing.

He shows a good understanding of the strike zone and he still has some power potential. With his ability to play up the middle, his power is less important. Isbel has a high floor with some pretty strong upside, the perfect player for the rebuilding Mariners.