O'Brien is slashing .294/.362/.765 with a team-leading seven homers and 14 RBI over 51 at-bats during Cactus League play.

EDGE Analysis

O'Brien power tool has never been in dispute, but his high strikeout rate and lack of defensive value has prevented him from establishing himself as a regular in the big leagues. Those contact issues have reared their head again this spring, as O'Brien's 19 strikeouts are also tops among all players on the team. The Royals could have an opening in the outfield with the news that Jorge Soler (oblique) may require a DL stint to begin the season, but Terrance Gore, who boasts game-changing speed and better defensive instincts, may be a better fit for a reserve role than O'Brien.