Royals add Duda to major league roster, release Goodwin

The Kansas City Royals officially added Lucas Duda to the 40-man roster on Monday, and in the process they parted ways with a player many believed would be part of their Opening Day outfield.

The Royals announced on Monday afternoon that they’ve selected the contract of Duda, who rejoined the club on a minor league deal last week after being released by the Minnesota Twins. Duda spent most of the 2018 season in Kansas City before being dealt to the Atlanta Braves in a waiver deal on August 29. To make room for Duda, they requested release waivers on outfielder Brian Goodwin, who up until Monday looked like a prime candidate to open the season as the starting right fielder.

The 28-year-old Goodwin, who was acquired from the Nationals last July, hit .116 with one homer in 43 at-bats this spring.