According to springtraining08.com/royals the starting lineup is going to look very similar to this:
Projected Opening Day Lineup
- David DeJesus (CF)
- Mark Grudzielanek (2B)
- Mark Teahen (LF)
- Jose Guillen (RF)
- Billy Butler (DH)
- Alex Gordon (3B)
- John Buck (C)
- Ross Gload (1B)
- Tony Pena Jr. (SS)
Now this is something to talk about. If you were to take a very quick glance at this lineup, there are some names that jump out at you. Grudzielanek, if for nothing else the name that I stared at the longest, when he first came into the league, in order to “sound out” his name. Repeating it faster as I went until I could easily say “Grudzielanek.” But overall, a detailed look at this lineup sees alot of youth with super potential. Will Alex Gordon pick this year as his coming out year, and showcase this super ability, and start his walk toward greatness? Or is it Billy Butler’s year? How about Mark Teahen? Is this the year that he finds his place on the field, and can mature into a great player, playing only one position?
Overall I have to say that it has the potential to be a force this year, but let’s not forget the American League Central is no joke. And I would have to say for sure…if nothing else…being in this division can only help them down the road as ballplayers. They will be playing some of the best teams in the entire majors on a consistant basis. This usually results in a higher level of play from the team as a whole over the long run. So, if nothing else, look forward to the future, because the furture is being built on the education they will be receiving on the field. And that level of education cannot be matched by very many other teams in baseball.