The battle for the 25th spot on the Royals roster is shaping up as a question of Whit Merrifield or Christian Colon, of versatility vs. inventory.
Merrifield, a 28-year-old utilityman, is perhaps the most versatile player in the organization, an athletic infielder who can also play all three outfield spots. Merrifield, however, has options remaining, meaning he can be sent to Class AAA Omaha without going through waivers. Christian Colon, a 27-year-old former first-round pick in 2010, does not have options left. If he is not on the 25-man roster, he must be placed on waivers and exposed to other teams.