As music pumped into the Royals clubhouse Wednesday afternoon, the clearest sign of a second straight series victory, players greeted first baseman Lucas Duda with parting handshakes. Minutes after leaving the field of a 9-2 Royals win, Duda was informed his tenure in Kansas City was over after just six months.
The Royals traded Duda, an impending free agent, to the Atlanta Braves for cash considerations.
The deal comes two days before the MLB playoff roster deadline. Atlanta leads in the National League East Division.
“A little surprised,” Duda said. “I’ve grown close to guys here.