Royals' Kendrys Morales: Likely to see raise in 2017

Morales, who has an opt-out clause as part of a mutual option for 2017, could receive a qualifying offer if he elects to exercise that clause, the Kansas City Star reports.

Analysis:

After a slow start, Morales rebounded to hit 30 homers in 2016, his highest total since he swatted 34 long balls in 2009 for the Angels. Overall, his line slipped to .263/.327/.468 in 2016 from .290/.362/.485 in 2015. At age 33, it's easy to wonder if there will be a long list of American League teams willing to offer up a multi-year deal if Morales becomes a free agent, but he's likely to receive a raise next season whether it's with Kansas City or elsewhere.