ROYALS GET GATHRIGHT FOR YOUNG LEFTY
The Kansas City Royals acquired outfielder Joey Gathright and minor-league infielder Fernando Cortez from the Tampa Bay Devil Rays for minor-league pitcher J.P. Howell.
What does it give the Kansas City Royals
Gathright gives the Royals a ton of speed and someone who may play alongside David DeJesus in the outfield for many years. While he had some trouble hitting consistently with the Rays earlier this year, earning a demotion to Triple-A, he is a solid singles hitter who can turn those singles into doubles and even triples with ease by stealing bases. Cortez also has the dimension of speed, but if he profiles as any kind of major-leaguer it's probably as a utility man.
What does it give the Tampa Bay Rays
Finally dealing from their outfield depth, the Rays attempted to address their need for starting pitching. Of course, being just 23, Howell is no lock for long-term success as a big-league starter, especially considering his lack of it in 15 starts last year. But the young southpaw was a first-rounder in 2004 and has had some success in the minors thanks to his good command over a deep arsenal, so the Rays may insert him into their rotation quickly.
Fantasy impact
