Trey Hillman media session: April 23

The talk today centered on the new additions to the Kansas City Royals; right-handed pitcher Brad Thompson and left-handed pitcher Bruce Chen. Royals’ manager Trey Hillman is excited to see the new arms in the bullpen and stated he is looking for the right combination to get the baseball to closer Joakim Soria in the ninth inning. Hillman knows that the Royals record this season would be significantly improved had they seen better outings from their relievers.

With these additions, also came some losses from the Royals’ bullpen. The Royals released relief pitcher Juan Cruz and designated relief pitcher Luis Mendoza for assignment. Hillman cited that Cruz didn’t have his full strength on several occasions this spring, possibly from a lingering sore shoulder that bothered him last season. However, Hillman believes these moves show the Royals are dedicated to winning now and will not settle for giving away any victories.