Royals' Raul Mondesi: Claims job at second base

Manager Ned Yost has named Mondesi as the Royals' Opening Day starter at second base, Jeffrey Flanagan of MLB.com reports.

Analysis:

Mondesi beat out Whit Merrifield and Christian Colon for the job at second base. The 21-year-old struggled at the plate during his 47 games with the Royals in 2016, slashing just .185/.231/.281 over 149 plate appearances, though he did flash impressive defense and swipe nine bases (on 10 attempts). His speed and defense, coupled with his impressive spring -- where he is 17-for-46 with three homers (.370/.383/.609) -- have made him a popular late-round middle infield target, one that is even more justifiable now that he is solidified as the starter.