The Royals could really surprise some people this season. You may not find them in the top of the standings, yet they will give some teams some trouble during the season.
Zach Greinke is back and preparing for another stellar season on the mound. (In case you forgot he's the 2009 AL Cy Young Winner) I look for Zach to continue to dominate on the mound. He has always had nasty stuff and now is really understanding the art of pitching and getting major league hitters out.
Other familiar faces that will be seen in a Royals uniform are Joakim Soria and Billy Butler. Soria is one of baseballs top closers and has recorded 72 of 78 saves the past two years. Butler is back and ready to continue his success after being the team leader in home runs, RBI's, batting average, on base percentage, OPS and last but not least doubles. Quite a season for the big fella
Continuing to try and improve the Royals front office looked to some key free agents to help solidify their lineup for 2010. Rick Ankiel, Jason Kendall, and Scott Podsednik were all signed and ready to be in the starting line up for the Royals.
- (Is it me or does it seem weird to not see Buck's name behind the plate for the Royals)
One thing you must keep an eye on during the 2010 season is the progression of Alex Gordon. He was a highly touted prospect (2nd pick overall, 05' Draft) that has shown some signs of promise but hasn't produced like they hoped. After the injury bug hit him last season people now look to the 2010 season as a year Gordon could bust out.
From top to bottom the Royals has a solid ball club. I really feel like the could really shock some people in the Central. I realize I predict them in 4th place but if a few things go the Royals way this could make them much more of a contender.
Last but not least I will give you an Idea of what the Royals starting line up and rotation will possibly look like for the 2010 Season.
1. LF Scott Podsednik:
2. 2B Chris Getz
3. RF David DeJesus
4. 1B Billy Butler
5. CF Rick Ankiel
6. DH Jose Guillen
7. 3B Alex Gordon
8. SS Yuniesky Betancourt
9. C Jason Kendall
The Royals rotation will set up something like this...
1. RHP Zack Greinke
2. RHP Gil Meche
3. RHP Brian Bannister
4. RHP Luke Hochevar
5. RHP Kyle Davies
Lefties are no where to be found in the Royals rotation, lets see if they will do anything about it.
This wraps up my AL Central 4th place prediction for the 2010 season. The Kansas City Royals are on the right path yet there is just to many questions marks in the line-up and mainly the rotation to pick them to finish any higher. However keep and eye out for the Royals they could turn more than a few heads this upcoming season.
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