The Kansas City Royals are testing Michael Massey in a new position. How’s it going?
Michael Massey took an alternative route leaving the Kansas City Royals dugout on Tuesday afternoon.
His positional coordinates had changed.
Massey, who started his entire career at second base, jogged into the outfield. With the sun gleaming on his sunglasses, he was headed to a new destination.
And it was relatively unknown.
“Obviously, a little different playing out there,” Massey said. “(I haven’t been out there) since I’ve been a kid. Just seeing the ball and getting reps I think is going to be good for me.”
The Royals are experimenting with Massey and new teammate Jonathan India in left field this spring. Both are second basemen by trade, but KC is hopeful to get a look at each in the outfield.
India was acquired from the Cincinnati Reds. He is expected to lead off for the Royals and set the table in front of Bobby Witt Jr., Vinnie Pasquantino and Salvador Perez.
KC will utilize India at second base, third base and in left field. Massey is learning left field to gain defensive versatility and to better balance the starting lineup.
On Tuesday, Massey was tested early.
Texas Rangers shortstop Corey Seager challenged him with a deep fly ball. Massey was able to shift his hips, gauge the depth of the flight path and track the baseball into the glove.
“I was just so nervous I was hoping to catch it,” Massey said. “I don’t even remember it.”
Later, Massey took a scenic route while judging a fly ball off the bat of Rangers designated hitter Adolis Garcia. Massey started to his right before circling around to catch the baseball before it hit the ground.
“The second one was tough,” Massey said. “I remember it was to my right and I broke back. I have been trying to work, in like the drill work out there, being able to take my eye off the ball and being able to find it again. So, I took my eye off of it, looked up and saw the sun but didn’t see the ball.
“Just the work I was putting in with (Royals first base coach Damon Hollins) and kind of figuring out how to shift myself to see the ball and get a different angle. Hopefully, (that will) make them a little bit easier than that one.”
Both plays occurred in the first inning. Massey admitted the early chances allowed him to get settled into the game. He was proud of the effort and looks to continue adding a few adjustments in the field.
One example is adding an outfield glove. He played Tuesday’s game with his infield glove as he felt the most comfortable.
“I’m sure as we progress (I’ll be) able to get a bigger glove and get some extra length out there,” Massey said. “I think I’ll do like a hybrid. I think (Kyle Isbel) was saying to use a 12 ¾ (glove).”
Last season, Massey hit .259 with 14 home runs and 45 RBIs in 100 games. He missed time with a lower back strain that sidelined him twice on the injury list.
The Royals want to keep Massey in the lineup. His bat is important in helping to generate a potent offense. Additionally, Massey had a 15.7% strikeout rate and showed improvement driving the baseball to all fields.
In order to keep both Massey and India in the lineup, each will have to showcase they can play different positions.
“He’s been doing great out here,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “You know, just as far as getting comfortable, he’s a good athlete and something I think he has embraced.”
Massey will continue to work in left field this spring. He will alternate with India for reps in camp. The Royals plan to give him three consecutive days at a position before switching again.
The Royals came to the decision to best help the team. Massey drew praise from his teammates while in the game. Starter Seth Lugo was impressed and looks forward to what’s next in Massey’s progression.
“I was glad to get him some work,” Lugo said jokingly.
Massey had three outfield chances on Tuesday. He also fielded some ground balls against the Rangers. His next opportunity could come in a few days as he gets more comfortable in the outfield.
And he will have his sunglasses right alongside him.
“I need these for sure,” Massey said. “I’ll try a couple of different brands out and we will see.”
