Mike Moustakas' season is over because of a torn anterior cruciate ligament. This is the play on which Moustakas was injured.

Cheslor Cuthbert and Whit Merrifield will try to fill in the gap.

The Royals drew heavily upon their farm system blood last summer in their effort to win a championship, trading prospects for Johnny Cueto and Ben Zobrist, and the team's front office went into the year believing they would have not have the same kind of latitude to make a big move in 2016. Cuthbert and Merrifield or other inexpensive players might have to suffice.

If Kansas City ever does reach outside the organization before the Aug. 1 trade deadline, here are some of the options that might be available (but keep in mind that the Royals place a very, very high priority on defense):

Erick Aybar, Braves: But only if the Royals believe that Aybar's extraordinary regression this season is related to his trade from the Angels to a competitive abyss in Atlanta. He's hitting just .184 with four doubles and no other extra-base hits in 147 at-bats. By a margin of more than 100 points, Aybar has the lowest OPS in the majors.

Martin Prado, Marlins: But only if Miami evaporates in the standings -- and even then, they might prefer to keep Prado around.