The 70th anniversary of Lou Gehrig's "Luckiest Man" speech is this Saturday, July 4.  The Royals are joining Major League Baseball in the fight against ALS or "Lou Gehrig's Disease."  Each MLB team that is at home on July 4 will host a reading of Gehrig's farewell speech and all players will wear a "4♦ALS" patch in support of the cause.  Representatives from the ALS Association, ALS TDI, MDA's Augie's Quest and Project A.L.S. will be on hand at Kauffman Stadium.  

Royals Hall of Famers George Brett, Dennis Leonard, Frank White and Willie Wilson are taking part in the special reading of Lou Gehrig's speech.  Dennis and Willie stopped by the office today to record their lines.  Here are some exclusive pictures!  Special thanks to Royals associates Ben Aken, Senior Director of Community Relations, and Chris DeRuyscher, Director of Event Presentation and Production, for their work on the video project.

To learn more about on the "4♦ALS" cause including opportunities to support the fight against ALS, please visit MLB.com.

Hochevar soaring to new heights

Many reporters were asking manager Trey Hillman what to make of all the fly ball outs by starting pitcher Luke Hochevar, who is primarily a ground ball specialist.  "Yeah, their sure were a lot of fly ball outs last night, what can I say, he's locating all his pitches better, is really what it is.  It is very encouraging to see as a manager, he's progressing and becoming more of a pitcher and less of a thrower, it happens at some point to most through maturity and development." 

How's everyone doing?

If it was up to Jose Guillen, he would be in the starting line-up tonight against the Minnesota Twins, but it's not and he isn't.  The good news is however, they both agree that in a pinch, Guillen's services are available if need be.  So look for a well rested Jose Guillen in the later innings of the game to help out if needed, if not he is expected to be ready to start tomorrow against Glen Perkins and the Twins (1:10 pm).  Gil Meche had a very successful throwing session yesterday before the game, allaying any fears he or the coaching staff might have about his lack of velocity and consistency.  He is on track and scheduled to pitch tomorrow against Minnesota.   John Buck has been doing quite well with his rehab assignment, throwing the ball and batting without too much discomfort.  "There have been no setbacks to this point, John is moving along very well," says Hillman.

DeJesus - LF

Bloomquist - RF

Butler - 1B

Jacobs - DH

Teahen - 3B

Callaspo - 2B

Olivo - C

Maier - CF

T. Pena, Jr. - SS

Bannister - P

The halter top is back - on July 4, the first 10,000 ladies will receive a Royals Halter Top, while the first 10,000 males will receive a Royals Classic Ringer Tee.  Saturday's game starts at 12:10.  Buy your tickets today!

Royals' greats George Brett and Willie Wilson recently sat down to discuss their memories of past Halter Top Days.  Here's the video:

http://mlb.mlb.com/media/video.jsp?content_id=5213029

.400?

Manager Trey Hillman was asked about Minnesota Twins catcher Joe Mauer possibly being able to hit .400 for the entire season.  "He is an excellent hitter, man, I mean he is really good, but it is doubtful he will able to continue this pace for a full year," said Hillman.  Trey stated, "There are just too many variables, an amazing amount of good things have to go right for something like that to happen again. The wear and tear of a season, playing enough games, injuries, the weather, staying healthy, all play a serious factor, it's not just about your hitting ability," said Hillman. 

Who's on the mend and who isn't

Royals outfielder Jose Guillen has been given the day off with a sore left side and his time off could be extended a day or two depending on how he feels tomorrow.  Gil Meche threw in the bullpen and everything should be good for his start on Wednesday.  Alex Gordon has been striking the ball well on his rehab stint in Arizona, the same can not be said for his ability to run and maneuver as of yet.  According to Hillman, he is, as expected, having considerable trouble planting his feet, running, and maneuvering in the field and on the base paths.  "He is having difficulty running, we all knew this was going to be a slow and arduous process, he is doing as well as can be expected, and when he comes back it is still going to take time, and there will be day's where Alex will need time off," says Hillman.

The Minnesota Twins make their first appearance at the "New" K tonight.  Here's your Kansas City lineup:

DeJesus - LF

Bloomquist - RF

Butler - 1B

Jacobs - DH

Teahen - 3B

Callaspo - 2B

Olivo - C

Maier - CF

T. Pena, Jr. - SS

Hochevar - P

Royals prospect Danny Duffy, currently a member of the Wilmington Blue Rocks, will play for the U.S. squad at the Futures Game, to be held on July 12 in St. Louis as part of Taco Bell All-Star Sunday.  The game will be televised live on ESPN2 beginning at 1:00 p.m. CT.

 

Duffy, KC's second-round pick in 2007, is 6-2 with a 2.85 ERA this season.  He ranks fourth in the Carolina League with 66 strikeouts.  He pitched a scoreless inning at the California/Carolina League All-Star Game on Tuesday.

 

Current Royals John Buck, Billy Butler, Alex Gordon, Zack Greinke and Luke Hochevar have represented the U.S. squad in previous Futures Games.  Buck was with the Houston organization when he played in the 2002 Futures Game.  Butler took home MVP honors in 2006, becoming the second straight Royal to do so after Justin Huber won in 2005. 

 

Catcher Miguel Olivo played for the World Team in 2000 while in the Oakland system and reliever Juan Cruz represented the World Team in 2001 while he was in the Cubs organization.  Right-handed pitcher Julio Pimentel, currently on the 40-man roster, played for the World squad in last year's contest.

 

Congratulations to Danny on this honor and best of luck on July 12!

DeJesus - LF

Bloomquist - SS

Callaspo - 2B

Guillen - RF

Jacobs - 1B

Teahen - 3B

Olivo - C

Maier - CF

Bannister - P

DeJesus - LF

Callaspo - 2B

Butler - 1B

Guillen - RF

Teahen - 3B

B. Pena - C

Hernandez - SS

Maier - CF

Hochevar - P

Royals closer Joakim Soria has launched his personal website, http://www.joakimsoria48.com.  The website, written in both English and Spanish, offers fans a variety of information about baseball and Soria's charities. Fans also have the opportunity to communicate with the "Mexicutioner" through the website in a variety of ways. 

 

Soria's website focuses on pitching and conditioning tips. The website gives fans the option to e-mail Soria with questions, follow him on Twitter or join his Facebook fan page. "I'm excited to get closer to my fans and to promote my charity," Soria said. Each article on the website can also be shared to link on your favorite social networking sites.

 

Soria is in the process of developing a charitable foundation to build baseball fields in Mexico in underprivileged neighborhoods. The foundation has yet to be named.

 

The Royals have signed four more draft picks from the 2009 MLB First-Year Player Draft, including the double play combination from 2009 College World Series entrant the University of Arkansas. 

 

Razorbacks' senior shortstop Scott Lyons, KC's 15th round pick, and senior second baseman Benjamin Tschepikow, a 17th round selection, signed their contracts at Springdale's Arvest Ballpark, home of KC's Double-A affiliate Northwest Arkansas Naturals.  The duo will be separated as Lyons will begin his pro career for the Royals' Arizona Rookie League team in Surprise, while Tschepikow will start at Idaho Falls (R) in the Pioneer League.  Also inking was left-handed pitcher Jonathon Keck, KC's 42nd round pick from Bethel College in Tennessee, and 47th round selection Anthony Howard, a centerfielder from Quince Orchard High in Maryland.

 

In addition, the Royals have signed Scott Shimek, a right-handed pitcher from St. Mary's University (TX), as an undrafted free agent.

 

The Royals have now signed 22 of their 49 selections and four undrafted free agents.  For a full list of 2009 draftees and signings, follow this link:

http://kansascity.royals.mlb.com/team/draft.jsp?c_id=kc

The Royals will play their fourth regular season series in Houston this week (the clubs also finished the preseason slate with exhibition games in Houston from 2004-2007).

The pitcher is required to bat in Interleague games played at National League parks.  Trey Hillman is taking a page out of Tony La Russa's book by putting Zack Greinke in the eighth slot in the lineup tonight.  Zack loves to hit, and he belted his first Major League home run in 2005 at Arizona off of Russ Ortiz, who happens to be pitching for Houston tonight.  Here's your Kansas City lineup:

DeJesus - LF

Bloomquist - SS

Butler - 1B

Guillen - RF

Teahen - 3B

Callaspo - 2B

Olivo - C

Greinke - P

Maier - CF 

Royals bench coach John Gibbons celebrated his 47^th birthday on June 8.  Fellow Texan and former First Lady Barbara Bush turned 84 on June 8.  Nancy Sinatra, daughter of Ol' Blue Eyes and the voice behind "These Boots Are Made For Walkin'" celebrated her 69^th birthday.

 

Royals Radio Network engineer Don Free will celebrate his birthday in multiple states on Thursday.  His birthday starts in Texas as the Royals play an afternoon game in Houston.  The Royals will fly to Pittsburgh Thursday evening to begin a series on Friday.  Jimmie Walker, who played J.J. on "Good Times," will turn 62.  As J.J would say, that's Dy-no-mite!

 

Shortstop Luis Hernandez will be 25 on June 26.  He shares his day with another shortstop, Derek Jeter, who turns 35.  Sports legend Babe Didrikson Zaharias was born on this date in 1914.

 

Veteran reliever Ron Mahay turns 38 on June 28.  NFL Hall of Famer and 1979 Royals draft pick John Elway will be 49.

 

Mitch Maier rounds out the month with his 27^th birthday on June 30.  Fellow birthdays include Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps (24) and former heavyweight boxer Mike Tyson (43).

The I-70 Series wraps up today, with Gil Meche taking the mound.  Gil has the best June ERA (2.82) among active MLB pitchers with at least 200.0 IP during the month.  He is 20-6 lifetime and 2-0 this year with a 0.41 ERA in 3 starts.

Here's your Royals lineup:

DeJesus - LF

Bloomquist - SS

Butler - 1B

Jacobs - DH

Guillen - RF

Teahen - 3B

Olivo - C

Hulett - 2B

Maier - CF

Meche - P

Kyle Davies optioned, Tejeda activated

The big news of the day was a roster move, with Kyle Davies going to Triple-A Omaha and Robinson Tejeda returning from right rotator cuff tendinitis. 

Hillman said that Davies would join the O-Royals in Memphis, where they start a series on Tuesday.  Tejeda is expected to be at the ballpark and available for today's game.

Hillman said that Davies needs to command the ball better as he is centering pitches in dangerous locations.  Fatigue is not a factor in Hillman's mind.  He believes that Davies will return strong as most guys with three "plus" pitches figure it out.

He noted that Tejeda gives the Royals another option in the bullpen and said that everything looks fine with his health.

As for the rotation, the Royals do not need a fifth starter until next Saturday in Pittsburgh.  Hillman believes that the Royals have a few options.  Reporters asked about Sidney Ponson, who is recovering from a right elbow strain, and Bruce Chen, who pitched a complete-game shutout last night at Albuquerque.  Ponson is scheduled to start tomorrow.  He will make 40-45 pitches and the goal is for him to build his pitch count.  Hillman indicated that both had been mentioned but stressed that the decision would be made a few days before the game in Pittsburgh.

Position players

Willie Bloomquist has the day off today.  Hillman wanted to give him a day off so he does not become overextended.

Mike Aviles (right forearm strain) will not have any activity for the next four days.

Alex Gordon has been hitting on the field and running out of the batter's box to first base.  He is doing regular agility drills and taking ground balls.

John Buck is doing some light blocking drills and easy catching.  He also caught some bullpen sessions today.

Today's game is at 3:10 - not the original 6:10 start as on the early schedules.  Also, it is on FOX, not FSKC. 

Here's your Royals lineup:

DeJesus - LF

Hernandez - SS

Butler - 1B

Jacobs - DH

Guillen - RF

Callaspo - 2B

Teahen - 3B

Olivo - C

Maier - CF

Bannister - P

I-70 series!

 

Royals manager Trey Hillman is oh so excited about the upcoming cross-state battle with the St. Louis Cardinals.  "I love when teams come to the "New" Kauffman Stadium for the first time, everyone I have talked to has had nothing but great things to say about it," said Hillman.  "Obviously it's exciting for the fans, but to let everyone know, it's exciting for the players and us coaches also."  Hillman went on to say that weekends like this can really catapult a team in the right direction, you just need to take advantage of it and play solid baseball.

 

What do you do with this guy?

 

Royals manager Trey Hillman was asked about how he is going to approach pitching to the Cardinals first basemen, Albert Pujols.  "Well, it's this simple, you either pitch smart to Albert Pujols, or you don't pitch to him at all," said Hillman.  "He quite possibly could be the best right handed hitter I have ever seen, but I will pitch to him, to an extent," says Hillman. 

It's a Show Me State showdown at Kauffman Stadium! 

Gates will open at normal times all weekend. 

Please note that Saturday's game was changed to a 3:10 start and will be on the FOX Network, not FSKC.

Here's your Royals lineup for Friday:

DeJesus - LF

Bloomquist - SS

Butler - 1B

Jacobs - DH

Guillen - RF

Callaspo - 2B

Teahen - 3B

Olivo - C

Maier - CF

Davies - P

Does anyone actually like this weather?

 

Could some baseball players possibly like playing in this hot, sticky weather?  According to manager Trey Hillman, he's got some players on his team that relish playing under these types of conditions.  "You bet man, Jose Guillen and the rest of the Latin players grew up playing in this kind of weather, they can't wait for it every year," said Hillman.  "There is a comfort level there for some of the guys, you like what you know, even if it is weather that feels like 120 degrees." 

 

Hey, a little something for the effort

 

Hillman was raving about the new-found power in Jose Guillen's legs allowing him to seemingly give more of an effort on the basepaths and in the field.  "He just seems to be playing harder, I don't know what else to say, he looks like he is enjoying what he's doing out there," said Hillman.  Again, Trey said there is something to playing in warmer weather for most of the Latin guys.  Whatever the case, the manager is excited about the effort he is seeing from his starting right fielder.   

 

Coco Crisp

 

The Royals centerfielder is continuing to work on the lower half of his body, keeping in shape the only part of him that can move without obvious pain.  His upper body with his bum right shoulder is unable to do much of anything, making him incapable of throwing a ball, or swinging a bat.  "Another evaluation will be made in the near future, but at the moment and for the time being, we are shutting him down," stated Hillman.

DeJesus - LF

Bloomquist - SS

Butler - 1B

Jacobs - DH

Guillen - RF

Callaspo - 2B

Teahen - 3B

B. Pena - C

Maier - CF

Hochevar - P

Last night, FOX Sports Kansas City announcers Ryan Lefebvre and Frank White left their normal perch on the broadcast level of Kauffman Stadium for a view from the Pepsi Party Porch.  Team photographer Chris Vleisides stopped by for a few pictures.  FSKC will be outside again on Sunday, this time broadcasting from the Bud Light Party Deck on the roof of Rivals in right field.  Look for Ryan and Frank on the Party Deck on Sunday as the Royals battle St. Louis!

 

 

 

The DRI DUCK Fountain Seats are sold for the Royals-Cardinals series.  Some scattered single tickets as well as standing room tickets are still available for Friday and Saturday, while seats are still available for Sunday.  Standing room tickets are $10.  A reminder - Saturday's game is at 3:10 to accommodate a national broadcast on FOX.

Thanks for the Invite, Joe!

 

Tampa Bay Rays manager Joe Maddon selected Royals manager Trey Hillman to be on his All-Star coaching staff for the All-Star game commencing in mid July. "It's a great honor, I am truly very appreciative to Joe for selecting me to be a part of such a very special weekend," Hillman said.  Trey stated, "You don't take stuff like this for granted, I am going to enjoy every minute of this experience, opportunities don't come around like this that often." He admitted he was quite surprised by the selection seeing as how the two do not have a whole lot of shared experiences together.        

 

Injury Report

 

Robinson Tejeda has had no symptoms or irritation in his rehab stint, and seems to be throwing the ball well without discomfort.  Mike Aviles is still resting and monitoring his injured elbow and within the next week there should be more of a consensus on his availability.  John Buck is on a rigorously monitored throwing program that will not go beyond light "backyard catch".  Sidney Ponson pitched 2.0 scoreless innings for Omaha today in a 4-3 win over New Orleans.  Doug Waechter is currently participating in multiple bullpen sessions down in Arizona.  Alex Gordon is progressing nicely with his rehab regimen, becoming more and more capable of being as mobile as he needs to be.  He is still lacking in lateral movement and encouraged to not try and do too much with regards to his mobility.  Light ground ball workouts, hitting the weight room, and some casual jogging make-up his daily workout schedule.

The All-Star Game is coming up on July 14, and today we found out that Royals manager Trey Hillman will help "Turn St. Lou Blue."  Trey will be a coach for the American League!  Congratulations to Trey on this wonderful honor. 

Tonight is the "Summer of '69" Retro Night with a special pre-game party in the Outfield Experience.  Select lower-level tickets are just $6, so come on out and watch Zack Greinke take on the Diamondbacks!

Here's your Kansas City lineup for Wednesday:

DeJesus - LF

Bloomquist - SS

Butler - 1B

Jacobs - DH

Guillen - RF

Teahen - 3B

Callaspo - 2B

Olivo - C

Maier - CF

Greinke - P

The Royals inked 10 more players from the 2009 First Year Player Draft and also signed a pair of undrafted players...the draft picks who have agreed to join the organization include:

Mathiew White (#6 pick, righthanded pitcher, University of New Mexico);

George Baumann (#7, lefthanded pitcher, Missouri State University);

Benjamin Theriot (#9, catcher, Texas State University);

Brendan Lafferty (#18, lefthanded pitcher, UCLA);

Ryan Stovall (#19, third baseman, Thomas University, GA);

Marvin Cooper (#21, centerfielder, Belhaven College, MS);

Ryan Dennick (#22, lefthanded pitcher, Tennessee Tech University);

Scott Kelley (#23, righthanded pitcher, Penn State University);

Gabriel MacDougall (#27, left fielder, Lynn University, FL) and

Claudio Bavera (#33, Cochise College, AZ)

The Royals also signed undrafted players Jack Adams (righthanded pitcher, San Jose State University, CA) and Bryan Roberts (righthanded pitcher, Loyola Marymount University, CA)

To date, the Royals have signed 17 selections from the draft and inked 4 more undrafted players.  For the full list of draft selections and signings, follow  this link:

http://kansascity.royals.mlb.com/team/draft.jsp?c_id=kc

From one side to the other

 

Gil Meche will be the first to tell you he did not have his legs under him at the beginning of the season.  On numerous occasions it was well documented that Meche's stamina was becoming an issue and his style of working out was not conducive to his feeling comfortable or productive on the mound.  So now we come to find out that not only was changing his workout routine a contributor to his recent success, but he has also moved from one side of the rubber to the other.  "It is really helping him locate better, but to some degree it is also mental, everyone thinks a little tweak here and there can be monumental at times," said manager Trey Hillman.  Hillman said Gil's back feels much better, his stamina is regulated, and he is making some effective minor adjustments with pitching coach Bob McClure.

 

Misc.

 

Hillman was very appreciative toward the fans with their continued support and encouragement through this tough five-week stretch.  "You saw the fan turnout this past weekend, how awesome was that, they continue to believe in us and that makes it that much easier to believe in ourselves," said Hillman.  He stated, "We have absolutely not lost hope and to be reassured by your community that they have not lost hope in you either is pretty special."  Sidney Ponson threw two successful bullpen sessions in the past five days and he quite possibly could be ready for a minor league rehab stint in the coming week or two.  

Arizona makes their first appearance at Kauffman Stadium since 2003 tonight.  A lot has happened since 2003, including a homecoming for our boss, Mike Swanson, who worked with the Diamondbacks from their start-up until early 2007.

Tonight is T-shirt Tuesday, and we have the most anticipated shirt in Kansas City!  That's right, we have Zack Greinke shirts for the first 20,000, so get here early!

 

 

 

 

Here's your Kansas City lineup:

DeJesus - LF

Bloomquist - CF

Butler - 1B

Guillen - RF

Olivo - C

Jacobs - DH

Callaspo - 2B

Teahen - 3B

T. Pena - SS

Meche - P 

Ryan Lefebvre and his Footprints Foundation will host Gloves for Kids tonight from 6:00 to 8:00 at Dick's Sporting Goods, 119th and Nall.

Fans who donate at least $20 toward new baseball gloves for underprivileged youth baseball players can receive autographs from select Royals players.  Fans who donate at least $20 will receive a $5 certificate for Dick's Sporting Goods as well as a special ticket offer.  Sluggerrr will also be there!

 

Players scheduled to appear include pitchers Brian Bannister, Kyle Davies and Luke Hochevar; catchers John Buck and Brayan Pena; infielders Billy Butler, Tony Pena, Jr. and Mark Teahen; and outfielders David DeJesus and Mitch Maier.

Coco to the D.L.

 

Add Coco Crisp to the list of Royals players who are currently on the Disabled List.  The centerfielder went on the 15-day Disabled List today with a sore shoulder.  Manager Trey Hillman said, "We are going to keep him out until that shoulder fully heals, he can take as much time as he needs."  In his place on the active roster will be Tug Hulett.  "He's a good ballplayer, he can be very versatile for us," said Hillman. 

 

Misc.

 

John Buck has been up and throwing in the last couple of days, but that is about the extent to which he can participate in activities.  His back is quite sore and is need of constant and consistent rest.  Mike Aviles is still resting his elbow, and Sidney Ponson had another encouraging bullpen session. 

The Royals are looking for a sweep of Cincinnati today...1:10 first pitch.  Come on out to the game!  Today's game is also on FSKC and the Royals Radio Network (980 AM in Kansas City).

DeJesus - LF

Bloomquist - RF

Butler - 1B

Jacobs - DH

Olivo - C

Callaspo - 2B

Teahen - 3B

Hernandez - SS

Maier - CF

Bannister - P

The 2009 First-Year Player Draft took place last week, with the Royals selecting 49 players.  The club has signed seven selections, plus a pair of non-drafted free agents. Here is a list of players signed to date:

 

10^th round selection Geoffrey Baldwin, a first baseman from Grand Junction High School in Colorado

 

11^th round selection Ryan Wood, a shortstop from East Carolina University

 

12^th round selection Nicholas Wooley, a right-handed pitcher from William Woods University

 

16^th round selection Eric Diaz, a left-handed pitcher from New Mexico Junior College

 

20^th round selection Patrick Keating, a right-handed pitcher from the University of Florida

 

25^th round selection Richard Folmer, a right-handed pitcher from Stephen F. Austin State University

 

30^th round selection Josh Worrell, son of former Major Leaguer Todd Worrell, a right-handed pitcher from Indiana Wesleyan University

 

Non-drafted free agent Jose Sanchez, a left-handed pitcher from Montgomery College - Germantown

 

Non-drafted free agent Kyle Sweat, a right-handed pitcher from the University of Central Florida

 

 

Coming along Callaspo

 

Manager Trey Hillman is very impressed with the seemingly natural progression of his second basemen Alberto Callaspo.  "I am very pleased with his improvements this season, both at the plate and in the field," said Hillman.  He stated, "Laterally I think there is room for improvement and I would like him to slow down on double play possibilities, otherwise I am very happy with his fielding."  Hillman was asked about his home run capabilities in the future, "He is a doubles guy, if he starts thinking otherwise he won't get that barrel where it needs to be and corrections will have to be made.  I like the Alberto we have," said Hillman.

 

Prophet Hillman          

 

Hillman was asked what he thought baseball would look like in ten to fifteen years.  Hillman said, "You can pretty much expect to see more and more athletes on the field, who carry skills pertaining to agility, speed, and smarts. I think it will resemble the game of the past, with the emphasis put more on the finer points of the game, and not so much on the home run and how bulky can a guy get."   

 

One tough Crisp

 

Royals centerfielder Coco Crisp has been injured for a while now, but you wouldn't know it if you asked him.  Hillman says, "Crisp has quite the pain threshold, and is stubborn to a fault in dealing with his pain and playing. I thought the six days off would be enough, but his shoulder just isn't healing up like we thought, the DL is not out of the question at this point."

What a game last night!  Luke Hochevar threw his first complete game in the Majors, using just 80 pitches in a contest that lasted just 2:12.  It's a good thing that the game wasn't any shorter, because we needed the sun to go down for the KC Sky Show, which followed the 4-1 win over Cincinnati.  Here are a few pictures courtesy of team photographer Chris Vleisides.

The first 20,000 fans tonight receive Royals beach towels courtesy of Hy-Vee, so come on out for a great night of baseball!

 

 

 

Here's your Kansas City lineup:

DeJesus - LF

Bloomquist - SS

Butler - 1B

Jacobs - DH

Guillen - RF

Teahen - 3B

Callaspo - 2B

Olivo - C

Maier - CF

Davies - P

Short Term Memory

 

Manager Trey Hillman was asked about the importance of forgetting a difficult loss like yesterday's against the Cleveland Indians. "I would like in some form or another like to put the last five weeks out of my mind, you have to learn from your mistakes and move on," Hillman said.  He stated that being home and starting interleague play could be the spark this team needs to catapult them into a winning streak and propel them in the right direction.  "It's always nice to see other teams from around the league, I'm a baseball fan too, it should be a fun a homestand," said the manager.

 

No Pessimism in this Clubhouse

 

Manager Trey Hillman has told us on numerous occasions this season that at no point will he ever give up on this team, nor will they as a club ever count themselves out.  "Hey man, there is optimism in that clubhouse, it's hard to play ball like this but you have to let it go," Hillman said.  "We have not lost hope, our confidence is high, and we are thankful every day for our jobs, the ballpark we play in and the city we play for," exclaimed Hillman. 

 

Injury Update

 

Alex Gordon has been doing two reps of ground ball drills, and has been taking light batting practice.  He is also jogging on a consistent basis, but his lateral movement is being watched rigorously and evaluated daily.

Robinson Tejeda pitched last night for the Double-A affiliate Northwest Arkansas Naturals and he is progressing nicely and is being monitored for reassignment.

Mike Aviles is still resting his elbow and there can be absolutely no movement in his elbow for up to one more week.

Sidney Ponson threw a promising bullpen session yesterday, and is scheduled for another in the coming days.

John Buck is felling much better then he had in past days, but is nowhere near being ready to put on a uniform for the Royals.

 

With all of these players, Hillman says, "There is not a set timetable for any of our injured players, as each day comes they get healthier and when they are ready to perform, we will let you know."

The Cincinnati Reds are in town for the first time since 1999.  It's also time for the Kansas City Sky Show!  It's an event that you won't want to miss! 

DeJesus - LF

Bloomquist - SS

Butler - 1B

Jacobs - DH

Guillen - RF

Teahen - 3B

Callaspo - 2B

Olivo - C

Crisp - CF

Hochevar - P

The 2009 Draft is in the books, with the Royals selecting 49 players.  That doesn't mean that the Royals are taking any time off.  Scouts are headed to Minnesota this weekend to look at players and the Royals will continue to look at international talent.  Here are a few notes from both today's press conference and yesterday's teleconference.

 

Wil Myers

 

J.J. Picollo noted that Myers, a third-round selection, played seven positions in high school and that he has expressed a desire to catch.  Picollo says that the Royals will start him as a catcher. 

 

College picks

 

Kansas City selected 27 college players this year, plus Aaron Crow, who was listed as unaffiliated.  That's up from 23 college players last year.  The Royals had just two high school picks among their first 11 selections this year.  Last season, Johnny Giavotella was the only four-year college player in the first 10 rounds.  Moore said that he likes a blend of high school and college pitchers.  Some of the college pitchers from this year's draft will be relievers.  He hopes that they can reach the Majors at the same time.

 

Strategy and budget

 

Moore noted that Picollo used a strategy in which he chose three to four players with top round talent.  He also said the Royals must strive to use every penny of their scouting budget wisely.  Many of the players chosen in the final ten rounds are summer follow selections who have several college options.  Moore is hopeful that the Royals can budget their dollars in a way that will allow them to sign a few of the summer follow picks.

 

Local connections

 

The Royals made several picks with local ties, starting with Aaron Crow, their first-round selection.  Moore noted that it is important to "scout your own backyard aggressively."  He also said that the Royals employed "good old-fashioned scouting."

 

The Royals selected a pair of local prep pitchers today.  Michael Morin of Shawnee Mission South was selected in the 40^th round and Jeffrey Soptic from Shawnee Mission East was nabbed in the 43^rd round.  ATH just spoke with the local high school baseball fanatic in the Royals front office, Sr. Director of Corporate Sales, Mitch Wheeler.  His son Seth has caught Morin since they were nine years old.  Mitch says that Morin and Soptic faced off twice this season, including once in the Frank White Classic right here at Kauffman Stadium!  What an exciting moment for these two players to be selected by their hometown team!

Here's a great deal...the Royals are now offering a $10 Unlimited Play Pass for the Outfield Experience!  That's right, for $10 per person, you can ride the Carousel, putt a few rounds at Sluggerrr's Golf Stop at The K, hit at the John Deere Little K and more!

 

On the day of the game, the passes are available at the Box Office, the Majestic Team Store and the Outfield Experience Ticket Booth.  For future games, please visit the Box Office or call the Royals Sales and Group Sales Department at 816-504-4040 or 1-800-6ROYALS.

Here's your Royals lineup for Thursday.  We just returned from a press conference on the 2009 Draft.  We'll bring you a few notes on that in a bit.

DeJesus - LF

Crisp - CF

Butler - 1B

Guillen - RF

Callaspo - 2B

B. Pena - DH

Olivo - C

Bloomquist - 3B

T. Pena - SS

Greinke - P

ATH would like to congratulate Royals farmhand and fellow blogger Chris "Disco" Hayes on his promotion to Triple-A Omaha.  Hayes went 3-0 with a 0.98 ERA and 3 saves in 36.2 IP this season for Northwest Arkansas.  Chris has impressed at every level since being signed as an undrafted free agent out of Northwestern.  You can read about Chris in Issue 2 of Royals Gameday Magazine.  By the way, Issue 3 will go on sale for the Arizona series.  The new issue features a cover story on Coco Crisp and his family, so check it out!

 

Photo courtesy Tom Ewart - NWA Photography

The Royals have announced that the DRI DUCK Fountain Seats for the Royals-St. Louis Cardinals series, June 19-21, will be available for purchase at 9 a.m. on Saturday, June 13 at the Kauffman Stadium Gate C Ticket Windows as well as online at royals.com.  Fans will be able to purchase up to four (4) DRI DUCK Fountain Seats for each of the three games.  For this series only, the limit was changed from eight to four per game to accommodate more fans.

Both the Friday, June 19 and Saturday, June 20 games are nearing sellout status.  In addition to the DRI DUCK Fountain Seats, some single tickets as well as standing-room only tickets are still available. 

The Royals landed a highly touted prospect in the first round today, and the pitcher was in their own backyard.  University of Missouri product Aaron Crow, who went to Washburn Rural High School in Topeka, was the 12^th overall pick.  Crow went 13-0 with Mizzou as a junior in 2008 to earn Big 12 Pitcher of the Year honors.  He was selected by Washington last year, but did not sign.  Crow has pitched for the Fort Worth Cats in the independent American Assocation in 2008 and 2009.

 

Royals team photographer Chris Vleisides was in the "war room" during today's first round.  Here are some exclusive pictures.

First, we see General Manager Dayton Moore as he talks with Midwest Regional Supervisor John Flannery.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here's Dayton discussing draft strategies with Lonnie Goldberg, Mike Arbuckle, J.J. Picollo, Steve Williams, and Dean Taylor.

 

 

 

The Royals have made their pick!  J.J. Picollo gets congratulations from the baseball operations staff, including National Supervisor Junior Vizcaino.

Coco Crisp returns to the lineup as Kansas City faces his former team, the Cleveland Indians.  Tonight's game is on FOX Sports Kansas City and the Royals Radio Network.  First pitch is set for 6:05 CT.

Crisp - CF

DeJesus - LF

Butler - 1B

Guillen - RF

Jacobs - DH

Callaspo - 2B

Teahen - 3B

Olivo - C

Bloomquist - SS

Bannister - P

The 2009 First-Year Player Draft starts today, with the Royals picking 12th overall.  Kansas City also has a third-round selection, the 91st overall pick.  Coverage begins at 5:00 p.m. CT on the MLB Network.  Stay tuned to royals.com, mlb.com, and Around the Horn for the latest on the draft! 

Mark Teahen's home run and Willie Bloomquist's bases-clearing triple highlighted a five-run fifth as the Royals earned a 6-2 win yesterday.  Today, the Boys in Blue have a tough opponent, former Cy Young winner Roy Halladay.  Here's your Kansas City lineup:

DeJesus - LF

Bloomquist - SS

Butler - 1B

Jacobs - DH

Guillen - RF

Teahen - 3B

Callaspo - 2B

Olivo - C

Maier - CF

Davies - P

Today's game is on FOX Sports Kansas City.  If you are out and about, tune into KMBZ 980 or your local affiliate on the Royals Radio Network.

Crisp - CF

Bloomquist - LF

Butler - 1B

Guillen - RF

Jacobs - DH

Callaspo - 2B

Teahen - 3B

Olivo - C

T. Pena - SS

Greinke - P

REO Speedwagon performed in front of a sold-out crowd at Starlight last night, and lead vocalist Kevin Cronin sported a Zack Greinke jersey during the show.  You might remember that REO performed the national anthem at Kauffman on Opening Day, 2007.  Thank you Kevin for showing your support for the Boys in Blue!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Day game today...3:08 Central time on the Royals Radio Network and FOX Sports Kansas City.

Crisp - CF
Callaspo - 2B
Butler - 1B
Jacobs - DH
Guillen - RF
Teahen - 3B
Olivo - C
DeJesus - LF
Bloomquist - SS

Meche - P

Maier - CF
Callaspo - 2B
Butler - 1B
Jacobs - DH
Guillen - RF
Teahen - 3B
DeJesus - LF
Olivo - C
Pena - SS

Bannister - P

Here's your Kansas City lineup for today's game at Tampa Bay.  Head on down to the Power and Light District for the viewing party! 

Maier - CF
Callaspo - 2B
Butler - 1B
Jacobs - DH
Guillen - RF
Teahen - 3B
DeJesus - LF
Olivo - C
Pena - SS

Davies - P

The Royals have had a few roster moves since Sunday's game.  Yesterday, outfielder Coco Crisp was placed on the bereavement list by the Commissioner's Office. 

Today, the Royals place right-handed pitcher Sidney Ponson on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to May 30 with a right elbow strain.  Closer Joakim Soria and shortstop Tony Pena, Jr. were activated from the disabled list and will be available for tonight's game at Tampa Bay.

In other news, the Royals have signed Tim Raines, Jr. to a minor league contract.  The 29-year old Raines batted .311 with 18 home runs and 78 RBI for Tucson in the PCL last season.  He played for Baltimore in 2001, 2003 and 2004.  Tim Jr. played alongside his dad, seven-time All-Star Tim Sr., in 2001 for the Orioles.  The younger Raines has been assigned to Triple-A Omaha.

Thank you to everyone who donated food or money to the Royals Wives Food Drive last week!  The campaign featured silent auctions and food collections at Kauffman Stadium and autograph sessions at Hy-Vee.  A preliminary estimate on collections is $12,300 plus the food donations.  Proceeds will benefit Harvesters and St. James Place.  For more information on upcoming Royals events, visit the Community Calendar on royals.com.

 

 

 

The 2009 First-Year Player Draft starts next Tuesday.  Tomorrow, you can get an inside perspective on what it's like to be a top prospect on draft day.  Eric Hosmer, Kansas City's first-round pick in 2008, will chat with fans on royals.com starting at 2:00 p.m. Central time. 

 

Eric was rated as the best high school power hitter by Baseball America before last year's draft.  He is playing for the Burlington Bees in the Class-A Midwest League.  After a slow start, Eric is tearing the cover off the ball.  He homered on Sunday and is batting .343 with 14 RBI in his last 10 games.

 

Get your questions ready now!  The chat is free, but you need to register at royals.com to participate.