Yes. His 615 batting average is backed by a 1.385 SLG and an OPS of 2.000, according to his numbers.
So far, he’s had two doubles, a triple, two home runs, and four RBIs. He’s been the top spring training player in baseball by various accounts and measurements.
Olivares is entering his age-26 season with just over a year of MLB experience under his belt. He’s no longer the raw talent with the pop in his bat and the potential to make teams overlook his defensive flaws.
He’s a player on the cusp of his athletic prime who’s had a few cups of coffee in the big leagues, but he’s also a player who has yet to shine when given the opportunity.
The time limit has expired. He hasn’t always gotten a fair shake with the Royals, however.
Olivares hit .238/.291/.406 in 39 games with the Royals, good for an OPS of under.700 and a wRC+ of 88.
Those metrics, along with below-average (and probably downright terrible) outfield defense, did not create a picture of a player ready for a bigger role.
On the other hand, he never stayed on the field for an extended period of time. In 2021, Olivares traveled back and forth between Omaha and Kansas City numerous times, making it difficult for him to settle into a routine.
When he finally settles in, another issue arises: he’s far too good for minor league pitching.
Olivares was outstanding in 66 games with the Storm Chasers in 2021. With a.559 SLG and a 155 wRC+, he hit.313 with a .559 SLG.
He increased his walk rate to 9.9%, which is the highest it’s been since he was in High-A with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2017.
He also reduced his strikeout percentage to 15.8%, the lowest since rookie ball in 2014. Olivares’ power was obvious, with 15 home runs and a video game-like .246 ISO in 292 plate appearances, but he was also simply good.
He appeared to be ready for a more difficult task.