The Royals are “close to agreement” with free agent centerfielder Billy Hamilton, according to Jim Bowden of The Athletic. The 28-year old switch-hitter was non-tendered by the Reds last week after hitting .236/.299/.327 with 34 steals in 153 games. In just over five seasons with the Reds, Hamilton hit .245/.298/.333.
Hamilton has made his living through his legs, being the fastest basestealer in baseball over the last few seasons. No one in baseball has more steals since 2014 than his 264, and he has been successful over 81% of the time. He has been a very strong defender in centerfield, ranking as the fourth-best defensive centerfielder according to Fangraphs last year.