ROYALS LAND LEADOFF MAN AOKI
The Kansas City Royals acquired outfielder Norichika Aoki from the Milwaukee Brewers for pitcher Will Smith.
What does it give the Kansas City Royals
Aoki, the Royals finally land a true leadoff hitter for their lineup. They've tried the likes of {P Alex Gordon} and {P Lorenzo Cain} but prefer to bat those two outfielders further down in the lineup. They also tried {P Jarrod Dyson}, but he's more of a part-time player than long-term solution. Therefore, Aoki should fit in nicely as the team's new right-fielder and first batter. He can steal bases, but more importantly he is a patient hitter who can draw a lot of walks.
What does it give the Milwaukee Brewers
Smith is a 24-year-old left-hander who can both start and relieve. In 2013, he seemed to have found his niche pitching out of the Royals bullpen but Milwaukee may need him more as a starting pitcher. Either way, he should figure prominently in the Brew Crew's plans moving forward. This trade also allows Milwaukee to move LF {P Ryan Braun} to right field, with {P Khris Davis} getting first crack at playing every day in left field. Shortstop {P Jean Segura} will likely lead off with Aoki gone.
Fantasy impact
As long as Aoki adjusts nicely to the American League, he may make an immediate impact in Kansas City. His fantasy value could see a spike as a result. Smith may also see a major increase in fantasy value if he lands in Milwaukee's starting rotation. Both enter 2014 as big fantasy sleepers. The other obvious winner in this deal is Davis, who should now play regularly for the Brewers. He is another '14 sleeper.
