(Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports)
Nearly two years have passed since the KC Royals sent cash to the Yankees for Ryan McBroom, a first baseman-outfielder with promising power but absolutely no major league experience. He’s had his big league chances with the Royals—they’ve put him on the active roster several times—but hasn’t been able to stick with the big club.
McBroom’s home runs and his ability to play first base and the outfield keep him on Kansas City’s radar. Although he hasn’t homered in nine plate appearances with the Royals this season, he’s clubbed 21 in 80 games for Triple-A Omaha, and never failed to hit at least 11 (with a single-season high of 26) in six minor league campaigns prior to last year’s short season, in which he managed six, including three as a pinch hitter.