KANSAS CITY, OAKLAND SWAP OUTFIELDERS
The Kansas City Royals acquired outfielder Billy Burns from the Oakland Athletics for outfielder Brett Eibner.
What does it give the Kansas City Royals
The Royals appear to be a better fit for Burns, who is a practitioner of 'little ball'--a style of game that Kansas City has excelled at in recent seasons. Burns has struggled badly in 2016, after starting the campaign as Oakland's starting center-fielder and leadoff man. He needs a restart and could get it with the Royals (but perhaps not until 2017).
What does it give the Oakland Athletics
For the Athletics, getting Eibner makes sense because he probably fits their organizational philosophy better than Burns. That said, Eibner is more of a role player and organizational depth outfielder than projected everyday player. Therefore, he might see time in Oakland this season or next but will likely be reduced to a platoon or backup role.
Fantasy impact
Burns could see a fantasy revival next season if he winds up as a starting outfielder in Kansas City. As for Eibner, his fantasy value will likely be reduced to platoon duty whenever he reaches Oakland.
