The Royals are looking for "near ready" starting pitching for Jeff Francoeur and Melky Cabrera, according to ESPN.com's Jerry Crasnick (on Twitter). Francoeur realizes the Royals may trade him, but he told Bob Dutton of the Kansas City Star that he would prefer to stay in Kansas City long-term. The outfielder has had casual conversations with GM Dayton Moore to express his desire to stay, but the sides haven't discussed their $4MM mutual option for 2012 so far.
“At some point,” Francoeur said, “we’ll talk to Dayton about the option. Maybe get a two or three-year deal or something. I’ve told Dayton that I like it here. I’d love to stay here."
Last offseason, Francoeur signed a one-year, $2.5MM deal and Cabrera signed a one-year $1.25MM deal. The Royals can bring Cabrera back in 2012 by tendering him a contract after the season.
