Kansas City Royals depth at shortstop

Since the start of the 2011 season the Kansas City Royals have been very stable at the shortstop position. It has been a welcome change from the likes of Yuniesky Betancourt, who never quite seemed to know what the leather thing on his left hand was or what to do with it. But what of an injury? What options do the Royals have if things do not go to plan?

Alcides Escobar – Escobar came to the Royals in the deal that sent Zack Greinke to the Milwaukee Brewers and is still the best advert for that trade. He is not only the Royals everyday shortstop, but he is one of the best defensive shortstops in the league. At the very least he must be on the shortlist for a gold glove and should win. He is also a solid hitter, going at .290 this year.

Tony Abreu – Abreu played almost a hundred games at shortstop at AAA Omaha this year before also getting some time at the major league level. Assuming he stays with the club (and he is a trade possibility) he would be the first choice to play everyday if Escobar went on the DL.

Irving Falu – Like Abreu he has also been mentioned as a possible backup at third and second as well. He appears to be a better hitter than Abreu, but is still probably the third option.

Christian Colon – Colon was the Royals’ first round draft pick in 2010 and he does not look like getting to the major leagues any time soon. He did play a few games at AAA this year, however, and could be in a position to be an emergency backup in the next few years.