Get ready to report.
Anne Rogers writes about spring training storylines, including the battle for the fifth spot in the rotation.
It seems like the two frontrunners for the fifth rotation spot are Bubic and Marsh. Wright might be a little behind the others in his throwing progression because of his long layoff after shoulder surgery. Lynch could pitch himself into a spot in the rotation or bullpen.
“I think to start the year, we’re going to go into it like Marsh and Bubic are competing for the fifth spot in the rotation,” Picollo said. “Whoever wins it, wins it. We know both guys can go into the bullpen and be a plus for us. And then as the season goes on, we just have to read it as we go and make the best decisions we can.”
Does that mean whoever does not win the fifth rotation spot immediately goes into the bullpen? That’s to be determined. The Royals will want depth built up in Triple-A.
Royals Weekly considers what it would take for the offense to improve.
2. Melendez and Garcia chance to improve. What this offense really needs to progress is for one of these two young hitters to breakout. Witt Jr.’s breakout last season was the catalyst for the Royals’ turn around. If Melendez or Garcia could breakout, even to a smaller degree, this offense would immediately become dangerous. Of course, they’ve had chances before, but it’s hard to know what will cause a breakout. Melendez has completely revamped his swing. It looks much simpler, which should help him cover more of the strike zone and keep his timing. I hope Garcia is working on finding a consistent launch angle pulling the ball more. But we’ll see.
Kevin O’Brien writes about what its like to be a Royals season ticket holder.
The Yankees sign reliever Tyler Matzek to a minor league deal.
The Cubs are reportedly eyeing Justin Turner as a Plan B if they don’t get Alex Bregman.
The Dodgers re-hire Farhan Zaidi as an advisor.
Shota Imanaga will make the start for the Cubs in the Japan Series.
How do prospect grades translate to future outcomes?
A look back at the Mookie Betts trade, five years later.
This year’s Hall of Fame class has the logo they will be inducted with announced.
The Reds will wear a patch this season to honor Pete Rose.
Former Ohio State football coach Jim Tressell is nominated as Lt. Governor of Ohio.
Alex Rodriguez wins majority ownership of the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves.
Why do people act weird at airports?
Fighting monkeys cause a blackout in Sri Lanka.
Your song of the day is Maggie Rogers with Alaska.