Zero to Hero - A Scotsman in MLB

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For the Royals first trip back to the ALCS since 2035 they will come up against a familiar foe. It is another AL Central opponent, as the Royals will meet the White Sox for the 5th time in post season history (tied with Baltimore and New York for most in Royals history) with all 4 previous occasions coming during the Stewart era, and Chicago holding a 3-1 advantage. They also won the regular season series in 2038, 8-5.

The White Sox are an elite team, having gone 92-70 in the regular season before sweeping the AL-leading Avalanche in the Division Series. They scored the 2nd most runs in the AL, with LF Beau Cutrone averaging .320, Jon Adelman .294 while hitting 30 HRs, and Juan Borja .269 with 40 HRs.

The pitching is focused on their 2nd best in the AL bullpen, with only Dan Nichols among their starters to have an ERA under 4.00. The closer Luis Alameda had a 2.15 ERA while recording 30 saves in 59 appearances.

Game 1 in Kansas City: Bogans vs. Josh Webb (2036 Trade NYY)
• Kansas City wins 6-3
• Bogans (W): 6.2 IP, 6 H, 2 R
• Webb (L): 4.2 IP, 7 H, 5 R
• Banmei Kataoka (SV): 1.0 IP, 2 H, 0 R
• Royals HRs: Bob Crimi (4th Inning, 2R)
• White Sox HRs: Bobby Osier (8th Inning)
• 1-0 Kansas City

Game 2 in Kansas City: Chafin vs. Ronnie Chapman (2035 Trade COL)
• Chicago wins 5-4
• Chapman (W): 5.1 IP, 8 H, 3 R
• Chafin (L): 5.1 IP, 3 H, 4 R
• Alameda (SV): 2.0 IP, 1 H, 1 R
• White Sox HRs: Bobby Osier (4th Inning, 2R; 6th Inning)
• Royals HRs: Billy Mumaugh (1st Inning, 2R), Mir (6th Inning)
• POTG: Osier (CWS) 2-2, 2HR, 2BB
• 1-1 Series Tied

Game 3 in Chicago: Min-Ho Kim vs. Chris Mueller (2032 Trade LAD)
• Kansas City wins 9-1
• Kim (W): 6.1 IP, 3 H, 1 R
• Mueller (L): 2.1 IP, 6 H, 5 R
• Kansas City HRs: Mir (1st Inning), Crimi (3rd Inning), Mike Connelly (4th Inning), Mumaugh (8th Inning, 2R)
• POTG: Connelly (KC) 2-4, HR, BB, 3 RBI
• 2-1 Kansas City

Game 4 in Chicago: Baquerizo vs. Josh McGann (2031 7th Round)
• Kansas City wins 11-3
• Baquerizo 4.1 IP, 1 H, 0 R
• McGann (L): 3.1 IP, 5 H, 6 R
• David Maciel (W): 2.0 IP, 4 H, 3 R
• Kansas City HRs: TJ Pompey (2nd Inning, 2R)
• White Sox HRs: Mike Jackson (5th Inning), Herb Savard (7th Inning, 2R)
• POTY: Pompey (KC) 2-3, HR, 2 BB
• 3-1 Kansas City

Game 5 in Chicago: Bogans vs Webb
• Chicago wins 6-4
• Webb: 4.0 IP, 5 H, 4 R
• Bogans (L): 5.0 IP, 10 H, 5 R
• Alameda (SV): 2.0 IP, 1 H, 0 R
• White Sox HRs; Osier (3rd Inning, 2R), Cutrone (3rd Inning, 3R)
• Royals HRs: Juan Soreni (1st Inning, 2R; 3rd Inning)
• POTG: Soreni (KC) 2-4, 2 HR
• 3-2 Kansas City

Game 6 in Kansas City: Chafin vs Chapman
• Kansas City wins 4-0
• Chafin (W): 6.0 IP, 4 H, 0 R
• Chapman (L): 4.1 IP, 4 H, 1 R
• Kataoka (SV): 1.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R
• Kansas City HRs: Mike Connelly (6th Inning, 3R)
• 4-2 KANSAS CITY WINS

Series MVP: Juan Soreni (KC): .400 AVG, 2 HRs, 6 RBIs

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The Royals advance to their seventh World Series appearance, looking for their first win after two losses in the Colin Stewart era. They will take on the Los Angeles Dodgers in a World Series match up first.

The Dodgers (100-62) had the best offense and the second best defense in the National League, and beat the Royals 2-1 in the regular season series, giving them home advantage.

Their batting line up is led by their 2035 1st round draft pick, SS Vince Elkins, who averaged .308, hit 55 HRs, and had 149 RBIs. Rusty Kopp, two-time Platinum Stick at SS is their DH, and hit .297 while driving in 97 runs.

On the pitching side, their rotation is led by 2027 1st round Mike Spence, who struck out 204 with a 2.58 ERA. If there is an opportunity, it comes with the 5th-ranked bullpen where only closer Zach Woodall managed an ERA below 3.50, recording 18 saves in 45 appearances.

Game 1 in Los Angeles: Bogans vs. Mike Spence (2027 1st Round)
• Kansas City wins 8-7
• Bogans: 5.1 IP, 6 H, 3 R
• Spence: 6 IP, 4 H, 4 R
• Jon Hall (W): 1.1 IP, 0 H, 0 R
• Zach Woodall (L)(BS): 1.0 IP, 4 H, 4R
• Banmei Kataoka SV): 1.0 IP 0 H, 0 R
• Kansas City HRs: Edgar Mir (1st Inning)
• Los Angeles HRs: Grady Emerson (1st Inning), Jaheem McCaster (2nd Inning), Juan Sosa (7th Inning, 2R)
• POTG: Mir (KC) 3-4, HR

Game 2 in Los Angeles: Chafin vs. Dave van der Molen (2028 2nd Round)
• Los Angeles wins 8-6
• Chafin: 4.1 IP, 8 H, 6 R
• Van der Molen: 6.1 IP, 3 H, 3 R
• Kataoka (L): 0.1 IP, 2 H, 2 R
• Woodall (W): 2.0 IP, 1 H, 0 R
• Kansas City HRs: Jon Basiliere (6th Inning), Mir (7th Inning, 3R)
• Los Angeles HRs: Vince Elkins (2nd Inning; 5th Inning), McCaster (2nd Inning, 2R), Ken Munden (9th Inning, 2R)
• 1-1 Series Tied

Game 3 in Kansas City: Kim vs. Josh Contreras (2030 1st Round)
• Kansas City wins 8-4
• Kim: 5.2 IP, 6 H, 3 R
• Contreras (L): 5.0 IP, 5 H, 4 R
• Jon Hall (W): 1.1 IP, 0 H, 0 R
• Kansas City HRs: Juan Soreni (1st Inning, 2R)
• Los Angeles HRs: Sosa (4th Inning)
• POTG: Soreni (KC): 1-4, HR, BB
• 2-1 Kansas City

Game 4 in Kansas City: Baquerizo vs. Josh Cook (2036 Trade DET)
• Los Angeles wins 7-6 (15)
• Baquerizo: 6.0 IP, 2 H, 1 R
• Cook: 5.2 IP, 5 H, 5 R
• Kataoka (BS): 3.0 IP, 3 H, 1 R
• Andy Newsome (W): 1.1 IP, 0 H, 0 R
• Hall (L): 2.0 IP, 1 H, 1 R
• Los Angeles HRs: Elkins (8th Inning), Jon Conrad (15th Inning)
• POTG: Elkins (LAD) 5-6, HR
• 2-2 Series Tied

Game 5 in Kansas City: Bogans vs Spence
• Los Angeles wins 7-6
• Spence: 4.2 IP, 8 H, 5 R
• Bogans: 4.2 IP, 5 H, 2 R
• Jeremy Ervin (W): 2.0 IP, 1 H, 0 R
• Chris Wagner (BS): 2.0 IP, 3 H, 0 R
• Heaton (L)(BS): 0.2 IP, 1 H, 2 R
• Jeff Schever (SV): 0.2 IP, 0 H, 0 R
• POTG: Elkins (LAD): 2-4, BB
• 3-2 Los Angeles

Game 6 in Los Angeles: Chafin vs. van der Molen
• Los Angeles win 4-2
• Van der Molen: 5.1 IP, 5 H, 2 R
• Chafin (L): 7.2 IP, 5 H, 4 H
• Chase Colar (W): 0.2 IP, 0 H, 0 R
• Woodall (SV): 2.0 IP, 1 H, 0 R
• Kansas City HRs: Sam Hart (4th Inning)
• Los Angeles HRs: Anderson (5th Inning, 2R)
• 4-2 LOS ANGELES WINS

Series MVP: Vince Elkins (LAD)

The Royals come up short in the World Series, with the Series turning in game 4. The Royals leds in the 9th before losing in 15 and didn’t win another game. There are several players out of contract this summer and there is definitely concern that this could be the window closing for the Royals. Bobby Witt Jr., it seems, will not earn a ring to end his career, which is the biggest disappointment of all.

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The Dodgers win their 8th World Series, and first of this series (and therefore since 2020).

Kansas City Postseason Stats




It was a successful post season for the Royals with only Jeremy Rogerson really disappointing although Billy Mumaugh may wish he had given more to the cause.

Owner Goal Review



Team Record:
I told you before the season I expected no less than a playoff appearance, and you did deliver that. You even went beyond expectations and nearly won it all. I'm very happy about that!

Extend your player:
Good job signing Jeremy Sidener to an extension. We'd kick ourselves, if we'd ever let him get away.

Acquire a player:
I'm not going to beat around the bush. As I said before, I need you to bolster our roster by acquiring a Hometown player. I've been patient. But I won't be patient forever. If I have to, I'll find someone else to get the job done.

Build your farm:
I am very impressed with the prospect pool you have built up here. I was only looking to become a top-6 team, and you've gone above and beyond. As we continue to improve the team, keeping a fully stocked farm team will make your task easy going forward.

Improve your fan interest:
The fans aren't much more engaged than when I set this goal. Let's keep working with them.

Improve your team record:
There's room for improvement in close games.

Long Term:
You made the playoffs. I had set out a longer vision to bring a championship to Kansas City by 2043, and that time isn't up yet. You do know it's been 23 years since this franchise has won? That may not be as bad as some teams, but I think the fans are starting to wonder when the next one will come.

I am happy with your performance in accomplishing the goals I have given you. However, when I consider the on- and off-field success of the team, my overall mood with your performance is very happy.

Minor Leagues



Post Season

Omaha Storm Chasers [AAA] lost in 2nd Round of the Playoffs.
Northwest Arkansas Naturals [AA] lost in 1st Round of the Playoffs.
Quad Cities River Bandits [A+] missed the playoffs by 19 games.
Columbia Fireflies [A] missed the playoffs by 9 games.
Kansas City (ACL) Royals [R] missed the Playoffs by 2.5 games.
Kansas City (DSL) Royals Stewart [R] lost in 1st Round of the Playoffs.
Kansas City (DSL) Royals Glass [R] lost in 2nd Round of the Playoffs.

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International Amateurs

We just completed our monthly private practice with many young international amateur free agents who we hope can aid our club in the coming years. It was great to meet the players in-person and get to know them better, and I was able to improve my scouting assessment on all invitees.

In fact some of the players impressed me, since they showcased a higher potential than I had previously expected from them:

Juan Esquivel, 16 year-old C out of Dominican Republic
Lean and athletic, Juan Esquivel hails from San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic. He has plus power potential. He projects to be an above average contact hitter. He should make pitchers work to get him out. Esquivel has the dynamic tools needed to make an impact in the majors.

Juan Sintos, 16 year-old 2B out of Cuba
Lean and athletic, Juan Sintos hails from San Cristóbal, Cuba. He has the power potential of a prototypical home run slugger. He is quiet and focused, with a repeatable swing and a line-drive approach. As he matures he is expected to provide above average defensive value. Sintos could develop into a productive regular on a contending team.

It was a great practice and none of the invitees disappointed in showcasing their talent.

And other players that I was able to further assess were:
Juan Usera, 16 year-old 2B out of Mexico
Gilberto Castro, 16 year-old RF out of Dominican Republic
Alejandro Guerra, 16 year-old CF out of Colombia
Nelson Canjura, 16 year-old C out of Venezuela
Arturo Oramas, 16 year-old SS out of Venezuela
Ernesto Pimentel, 16 year-old SS out of Dominican Republic
Sergio Rulz, 16 year-old CF out of Dominican Republic
Nelson Salazar, 17 year-old RHP out of Dominican Republic

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Catchers

Sam Hart (120 wRC+) continues to be everything the Royals could wish for and while Mike Murphy (48 wRC+) really struggled with the bat the Royals are likely to give him some runway in 2039 to see if that bat can continue to perform like it did in the post season as a useful left handed option.

Infield

Bob Crimi (107 wRC+) came up midseason as a utility first base / outfielder and did enough to earn the starting position with Juan Moreno’s injury. With some growth still to realise he is, free agents aside, the de facto starter for the 2039 Royals at first base. Bobby Witt Jr. played in 47 games, which is a lot closer to what the Stewart expected in 2037 from the legend, and managed to produce at above league average, 110 wRC+. It may even be enough to earn him another year with the Royals, contract demand dependent. That would give him the chance of catching Salvador Perez for second on the Royals HR list although it would also almost guarantee him overtaking Alex Gordon for most career strikeouts!

Edgar Mir (118 wRC+) had a down season by his standards but moves into the top ten for Royal total WAR after this season. He will expect a bounceback season in 2039. TJ Pompey had an okay contract year, stealing 34 bases to go with an almost league average 97 wRC+. He is looking for four years at $20m so the Royals will likely roll the Qualifying Offer dice on him.

Jeremy Rogerson (91 wRC+) didn’t have his best Royal year but stayed healthy and is probably worth the TO at $16m for the fans alone.

Marquis Foggie (72 wRC+) failed to replicate his Platinum Stick 2037 season and bounced around the infield, appearing in 129 games. He is a fan favourite and will return in 239 hoping he has an odd year performance! Jon Basiliere (61 wRC+) struggled with the bat and may have a development lab to try ti secure a roster spot in 2039 with some minor league competition coming.

Outfield

Midseason acquisitions Mike Connelly (147 wRC+) and Juan Soreni (167 wRC+) were exceptional after joining the Royals and, while Soreni will take his $50m/year for four years to free agency, Connelly returns on a league minimum contract.

Drew Burress missed the vast majority of the season so is likely to opt into his $23m player option for 2039 while Jimmy Goodman had the 7th most walks (97) in a Royals season while hitting at a league average 102 wRC+ with elite defence and the Royals will execute that Team Option at $10m. Billy Mumaugh (117 wRC+) had a 4.6 WAR season to move into 5th on the all time Royal list while also stealing 62 bases, good for 4th on the all time list. More randomly he was hit-by-pitch 20 times, 4th all time and he is now only 5 behind Alex Gordon for the all time high for the Royals – any way to get on base!

Enny Mijhail van Dyke (107 wRC+) is into his final year of arbitration and, with the arrival of Mike Connelly, could be a candidate for trade to free up both roster and salary space.

Offseason / Early 2037 Overview

C Sam Hart
1B Bob Crimi
2B Edgat Mir
3B Jeremy Rogerson
SS TBD / Jon Basiliere

LF Billy Mumaugh
CF Drew Burress
RF Jimmy Goodman

DH Mike Connelly

C Mike Murphy
INF Bobby Witt Jr. / TBD
INF TJ Pompey / TBD
INF Marquis Foggie
OF Enny Mijhail van Dyke / TBD



Starters

Curt Bogans (62 FIP-) had an all-time great season for the Royals, pitching in 33 games with a 3.00 ERA. WAR wise, it was the 9th best Royals season, while he struck out a 232 (4th) at a 10.9 K/9 rate (3rd) and a 4.83 K/BB rate (1st).

Ethan Chafin (80 FIP-) made the leap to starting rotation and delivered 2.8 WAR in his injury-interrupted season but with a 2.65 ERA which hints at his potential for more while Min-ho Kim also suffered with injury but put up 2.8 WAR from a 72 FIP-.

Eddie Baquerizo (75 FIP-) had his best season as a Royal with 5 WAR while recording the 8th best K/BB rate, topping his rate from 2037.

The fifth starter was a mix of Brad Demarest (117 FIP-), Chris Wolff (116 FIP-), and B.J. Heaton (71 FIP-) all of whom were more than adequate in the role with Heaton probably holding the inside track for 2039.

The top four pitchers will all return and the Royals will likely give one of their young arms a chance as 6th starter in Spring to see if they can earn a place over Heaton for 2039.

Bullpen

The Royals had the best bullpen in the league with only Edgar Alba of the final pen having a FIP- over 100 or ERA under 100. First year closer Banmei Kataoka recorded 39 saves in 59 appearances while joining two other RP (Jimmy Lininger and David Maciel) in providing over one WAR. This is an aging bullpen, however, with several of the group into arbitration and with a few young arms in the upper minors it would not be a surprise to see some changes over the off season.

Offseason / Early 2037 Overview

SP Curt Bogans
SP Ethan Chafin
SP Min-Ho Kim
SP Eddie Baquerizo
SP B.J. Heaton / TBD

RP Banmei Kataoka
RP Jon Hall
RP TBD
RP TBD
RP TBD
RP TBD
RP TBD
RP TBD

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Owner Goals



Finances

You have just been informed from the team owner John Sherman that latest surveys among fans have shown that their loyalty to the Kansas City Royals has increased to a "Good Loyalty" rating.
That's excellent news, keep up the great work!

You will have $234,000,000 available for the total team expenses. Given your current spending on staff and other costs, this should allow you a team payroll of around $180,000,000.



Personnel

The Office of the Commissioner has informed you that the following staff member of the Omaha Storm Chasers (IL, AAA) has decided to retire:

Manager Aaron Cames

The Office of the Commissioner has informed you that the following staff member of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals (TL, AA) has decided to retire:

Hitting Coach Ryan Folmar

The Office of the Commissioner has informed you that the following staff member of the Columbia Fireflies (CAR, A) has decided to retire:

Pitching Coach Tom Davey

The Office of the Commissioner has informed you that the following staff members of the Kansas City (ACL) Royals have left the team because their contracts ran out or they have been promoted:

Manager Ramon Castillo

The Office of the Commissioner has informed you that the following staff members of the Kansas City (DSL) Royals Stewart have left the team because their contracts ran out or they have been promoted:

Hitting Coach Zach Osborne

Minor Leagues

Awards

In Rookie ball, 2037 6th round pick Josh Hooper won Most Valuable Player while 2035 13th round pick Tug Adams was Reliever of the Year.

In the DSL, 2036 International Amateur Jorge Medrano was Most Valuable Player

In the Texas League (AA), Peter O'Brien won Manager of the Year while 2030 trade acquisition Julio Vargas was MVP.

At AAA, it was a hat trick of awards as Aaron Cames won Manager of the Year while 2035 trade acquisition BJ Heaton was the outstanding pitcher and 2035 8th round pick Nate Williamswon the Most Valuable Player award. Both will expect to be part of the opening day roster for the Royals.

Retirements

Few retirements this off season for the Royals, but 2030 4th round Joe Patterson and 2033 6th round pick Jeff Parker were the notable retirements from AA.

The Kansas City (DSL) Royals Stewart will retire number 14 in honor of Luis Villate. Villate recently announced his retirement from Dominican Rookie League.

Villate has played in 454 games and is hitting .403 lifetime with 721 RBIs, 754 hits, 164 doubles, 26 triples, and 155 home runs. He has scored 613 times and stolen 3 bases.

KC Top 250 Performances

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League officials have just announced that the secondary roster size limit has been increased to 42 players. Meanwhile, expanded roster size has been set to the same number of players.

Personnel

AAA Manager Kyle Synder
AA Hitting Coach Robert Wood promoted from A+
A+ Hitting Coach Luis Argumedes
A Pitching Coach Brendan Smith promoted from Rookie
Rookie Manager Matt Bouchard
Rookie Pitching Coach Garrett Sherrill
DSL Hitting Coach Yang Carlos Perez

Awards

AL Great Glove RF Jimmy Goodman
NL Great Glove
AL Platinum Stick C Sam Hart | 2B Edgar Mir | DH Michael Connelly
NL Platinum Stick
AL Manager of the Year Colin Stewart KC
NL Manager of the Year Jose Camilo LAD
AL Reliever of the Year Pat Black TB
NL Reliever of the Year Geoff Phillips SF
AL Rookie of the Year Eric Holstein TEX
NL Rookie of the Year Amari Alabre WAS
AL Cy Young Curt Bogans KC
NL Cy Young Mike Spence LAD
AL MVP Luis Moreno NYY
NL MVP Vince Elkins LAD

Pre-Arbitration Extensions & Trades

Sunday, November 7th , 2038
CF Drew Burress has executed his contract year option.
Executed the contract year option of RF Jimmy Goodman.
Executed the contract year option of 3B Jeremy Rogerson.
Traded 25-year old 1B Juan Moreno, 30-year old LHP Jeremy Sidener, 23-year old minor league CF Mike Thomas, and 23-year old minor league SS Stephon Vassor to the Houston Astros, getting 25-year old CF Jamie Edwards, 31-year old RHP Eric Cook (retaining 100%), 16-year old minor league SS Juan Medina, and $50,000,000 in cash in return.
Traded 24-year old minor league 1B Markas Huffman, 24-year old minor league C Andy Alexander, and 22-year old minor league RHP Jorge Castilloto the Colorado Rockies, getting 24-year old minor league 2B Jorge Mata and $55,000,000 in cash in return.
Thursday, November 11th , 2038
Signed 1B Bobby Witt Jr. to a 1-year contract extension worth a total of $1,800,000.
Signed RP Jimmy Lininger to a 1-year contract extension worth a total of $4,180,000.
Signed LF Enny Mijhail Van Dyke to a 1-year contract extension worth a total of $9,500,000.
Signed CL Eric Cook to a 1-year contract extension worth a total of $4,000,000.
Signed SP Brad Demarest to a 1-year contract extension worth a total of $1,750,000.
Signed RP Chris Wagner to a 1-year contract extension worth a total of $4,440,000.
Signed 1B Marquis Foggie to a 1-year contract extension worth a total of $1,550,000.

The overhaul of the AL Champs started in earnest on November 7th as, following Drew Burress opting into his player option, the Royals followed up by executing both Jimmy Goodman and Jeremy Rogerson’s Team Options.

On the same day they moved on from budding superstar Juan Moreno, with two major knee injuries in three years the Royals cashed in while they could still get a high return. That they did in a blockbuster trade with the Houston Astros. The Royals added 79th ranked Mike Thomas (2033 1st Round Supplemental) with Moreno and received the 5th best prospect in CF Jamie Edwards. They added in 2036 2nd round pick Stephon Vassor, along with Jeremy Sidener’s two year $11m/year contract, receiving arbitration eligible former-Royal RP Eric Cook and prospect Juan Medina. The Astros also included $50m in cash that will help the Royals continue to balance the books!

The same day the Royals moved on from 2032 2nd round pick C Andy Alexander (clearing the path for Mike Murphy to back up Sam Hart in 2039. He was packaged with 2032 4th round pick 1B Markas Haffman, whose power would never earn him the confidence of ownership at 1B, along with organisational piece Jorge Castilloto in exchange for interesting plus contact and gap power, speedster 2B Jorge Mata plus $55m from the Rockies.

Amongst several arbitration avoiding one year deals on the 11th was a one year extension for Bobby Witt Jr who will return for one more year in his quest for a ring.

Arbitration & Qualifying Offers

Sunday, November 28th , 2038
2B TJ Pompey accepted a 1-year qualifying offer worth a total of $18,900,000.
RP Shawn Bass was not offered arbitration, becomes a free agent.
RP Jon Holtz was not offered arbitration, becomes a free agent.
CF Kevin Roberts Jr. was not offered arbitration, becomes a free agent.

The Royals were slightly disappointed when TJ Pompey accepted the qualifying offer and will return while three players were not offered arbitration, including 2037 All-Star Shawn Bass.

Free Agents

Tuesday, November 30th , 2038
CF Juan Soreni becomes a free-agent.

The Royals never got close to making an offer to Juan Soreni who was looking for $50m for four years.

Post Arbitration Transactions

Tuesday, November 30th , 2038
Traded 26-year old RHP Chris Wolff, 27-year old RHP Chris Wagner, 27-year old RHP Jimmy Lininger, and 26-year old LHP David Maciel to the New York Mets, getting 23-year old minor league LF Josh Hatfield, 19-year old minor league RHP Ben Lane, and $8,000,000 in cash in return.
Placed SP Joe Davis on the secondary (42-man) roster.
Placed SP Dan Carrig on the secondary (42-man) roster.
Placed RP Eric Jones on the secondary (42-man) roster.
Placed CF Chase Standberry on the secondary (42-man) roster.
Traded 25-year old minor league RHP Brad McCourt, 25-year old minor league LF Kevin Davis, 25-year old minor league RHP Chris Arington, and 29-year old minor league RHP Zach Eckloff to the New York Yankees, getting 19-year old minor league 3B Jesus Medina, 19-year old minor league 3B Mike Schwind, and $20,000,000 in cash in return.

The expected clearing of the Royals bullpen started on November 30th as four of the 2038 pitching battery were traded in one fell swoop to the New York Mets. For the four pitchers (all of whom are primarily relief pitchers although Chris Wolff started for the Royals and David Maciel could start) the Royals received the 34th ranked prospect, starting pitcher Ben Lane (2037 4th Round), as well as AAAA outfielder Josh Hatfield and $8m in cash.

Despite the expanded 42-man roster the Royals have too many AAAA players and, having added some untouchables to the roster, packaged some of the remaining players together into a trade with the Yankees. For three borderline starting pitchers and a defensively-deficient outfielder the Royals received $20m in cash along with two defensively strong contact/power bats in advanced Jesus Medina and young Mike Schwind.

International Amateurs

We just completed our monthly private practice with many young international amateur free agents who we hope can aid our club in the coming years. It was great to meet the players in-person and get to know them better, and I was able to improve my scouting assessment on all invitees.

In fact some of the players impressed me, since they showcased a higher potential than I had previously expected from them:

Nelson Canjura, 16 year-old C out of Venezuela
Lean and athletic, Nelson Canjura hails from San Cristóbal, Venezuela. He has well above average contact potential. At maturity he should have an above average eye. His power potential grades out as average. Canjura has potential to unleash his obvious talent both on the field and at the plate.

Gilberto Castro, 16 year-old RF out of Dominican Republic
Lean and athletic, Gilberto Castro hails from Tamboril, Dominican Republic. He's skilled at going the other way and possesses a strong hit tool. The power is more a projection right now, but he has above average power potential. His defense as a right fielder is adequate. Castro profiles as an everyday right fielder who can make an impact on a top-tier team.

However, a few invitees left me disappointed as they did not appear to match my previous assessment, although they may still end up being future stars:

Nelson Salazar, 17 year-old RHP out of Dominican Republic
6' 3" Nelson Salazar is an intimidating presence on the mound. He should feature an elite slider as well as a decent fastball at his peak. His explosive stuff has scouts dreaming. Salazar has the potential to spend the next half-decade closing out games.

And other players that I was able to further assess were:
Juan Esquivel, 16 year-old C out of Dominican Republic
Alejandro Guerra, 16 year-old CF out of Colombia
Ernesto Pimentel, 16 year-old SS out of Dominican Republic
Arturo Oramas, 16 year-old SS out of Venezuela
Sergio Rulz, 16 year-old CF out of Dominican Republic
Juan Sintos, 16 year-old 2B out of Cuba
Juan Usera, 16 year-old 2B out of Mexico

Around the League

Retirements

Colorado Rockies: SP Chase Silseth retired from professional baseball.
Chicago Cubs: SP Cade Horton retired from professional baseball.
Cleveland Guardians: SP Ty Madden retired from professional baseball.
Washington Nationals: 3B Royce Lewis retired from professional baseball.
Arizona Diamondbacks: RF Zac Veen retired from professional baseball.
Washington Nationals: SP Gavin Williams retired from professional baseball.
Atlanta Braves: CF Michael Harris II retired from professional baseball.
Miami Marlins: SP Jairo Iriarte retired from professional baseball.
Pittsburgh Pirates: CF Emmanuel Rodriguez retired from professional baseball.
Philadelphia Phillies: 2B Adael Amador retired from professional baseball.
Los Angeles Angels: SP Josh Hartle retired from professional baseball.
Boston Red Sox: SS Marcelo Mayer retired from professional baseball.
New York Yankees: SP Andrew Painter retired from professional baseball.
San Diego Padres: C Malcolm Moore retired from professional baseball.
Atlanta Braves: CL Mason Fluharty retired from professional baseball.
San Diego Padres: 2B Matt Shaw retired from professional baseball.
Miami Marlins: 2B Jett Williams retired from professional baseball.
Pittsburgh Pirates: SS Carson Williams retired from professional baseball.
Seattle Mariners: 1B Peyton Stovall retired from professional baseball.
New York Yankees: LF J.J. Wetherholt retired from professional baseball.
Toronto Blue Jays: RP Tyler Dean retired from professional baseball.
Arizona Diamondbacks: SP Yu-min Lin retired from professional baseball.
Tampa Bay Rays: SP Michael Prosecky retired from professional baseball.

Atlanta Braves: Retired #23 in honor of Michael Harris II.

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International Amateurs

We just completed our monthly private practice with many young international amateur free agents who we hope can aid our club in the coming years. It was great to meet the players in-person and get to know them better, and I was able to improve my scouting assessment on all invitees.

In fact some of the players impressed me, since they showcased a higher potential than I had previously expected from them:

Alejandro Guerra, 16 year-old CF out of Colombia
Alejandro Guerra is a long, lean athletic center fielder who was born in Cali, Colombia. He is a great threat to steal a base. He has above average contact potential. He can be as good with the bat as anyone out there at his level. He has raw above average power. Guerra can be a second division starter at center fielder.

Juan Sintos, 16 year-old 2B out of Cuba
Lean and athletic, Juan Sintos hails from San Cristóbal, Cuba. He projects to hit for a high average with his smooth swing. He has plus power potential. He should be able to provide above average defense as a second baseman. Sintos has a high ceiling and projects well on the field and at the plate.

However, a few invitees left me disappointed as they did not appear to match my previous assessment, although they may still end up being future stars:

Nelson Salazar, 17 year-old RHP out of Dominican Republic
6' 3" Nelson Salazar is an intimidating presence on the mound. When he is fully developed, his repertoire should include an elite slider and a decent fastball. His explosive stuff has scouts dreaming. Salazar has the potential to spend the next half-decade closing out games.

And other players that I was able to further assess were:
Nelson Canjura, 16 year-old C out of Venezuela
Gilberto Castro, 16 year-old RF out of Dominican Republic
Juan Esquivel, 16 year-old C out of Dominican Republic
Juan Usera, 16 year-old 2B out of Mexico
Arturo Oramas, 17 year-old SS out of Venezuela
Ernesto Pimentel, 16 year-old SS out of Dominican Republic
Sergio Rulz, 16 year-old CF out of Dominican Republic

Rule 5 Draft

Wednesday, December 1st , 2038
RP Madhavrao Sajeev was designated for assignment and placed on waivers.
C Ajinkya Corley was designated for assignment and placed on waivers.
Placed RP Pat Burch on the secondary (42-man) roster.
Placed RP Bernalldino Caneas on the secondary (42-man) roster.
Placed RP Art Putney on the secondary (42-man) roster.
Placed RP Jamie Baggett on the secondary (42-man) roster.
Placed C Juan Carrillo on the secondary (42-man) roster.
Placed SP Omari Hammie on the secondary (42-man) roster.
Placed RP Dan Acton on the secondary (42-man) roster.
Placed CF Esteban Medina on the secondary (42-man) roster.

Friday, December 24th , 2038
Lost SP Jonathan Glymph in the Rule 5 Draft to the Texas Rangers.
Lost SP Jeremy Reed in the Rule 5 Draft to the Detroit Tigers.

2032 6th Round Pick Jeremy Reed wasn’t going to get a look at the starting rotation in Kansas City and Stewart doesn’t think he will survive in Detroit either so may well be back at the end of Spring Training.

Trades & Free Agents

The Royals were quiet in the month although Juan Soreni did sign with the Guardians to conflicting reactions.

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Finance

As we get closer to the start of the season, I have reviewed the team's financial state as of this moment.
As a reminder, you have $234,000,000 available for the total team expenses for the season.

You may review all your financials on your front office page .

Good Luck!
John Sherman

International Amateurs

We just completed our monthly private practice with many young international amateur free agents who we hope can aid our club in the coming years. It was great to meet the players in-person and get to know them better, and I was able to improve my scouting assessment on all invitees.

In fact some of the players impressed me, since they showcased a higher potential than I had previously expected from them:

Juan Esquivel, 16 year-old C out of Dominican Republic
Lean and athletic, Juan Esquivel hails from San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic. He has the potential to display plus power from the right side of the plate. He has improving pitch recognition, and may make consistent contact. He should demonstrate good plate discipline. Esquivel has the potential to be the catcher of the future.

Alejandro Guerra, 16 year-old CF out of Colombia
Alejandro Guerra is a long, lean athletic center fielder who was born in Cali, Colombia. He has impressive speed, runs the bases very aggressively, and can drop a bunt single on occasion. He projects to be able to consistently put the barrel of the bat on the ball. He has raw above average power. Guerra should be a regular starter.

However, a few invitees left me disappointed as they did not appear to match my previous assessment, although they may still end up being future stars:

Nelson Salazar, 17 year-old RHP out of Dominican Republic
Nelson Salazar is a long, lean athletic reliever who was born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. He mixes in a fastball with his primary slider. Both should be quality offerings in the future. His explosive stuff has scouts dreaming. Salazar is projected to be a late-inning reliever.

And other players that I was able to further assess were:
Juan Sintos, 16 year-old 2B out of Cuba
Nelson Canjura, 16 year-old C out of Venezuela
Ernesto Pimentel, 16 year-old SS out of Dominican Republic
Juan Usera, 16 year-old 2B out of Mexico
Gilberto Castro, 16 year-old RF out of Dominican Republic
Arturo Oramas, 17 year-old SS out of Venezuela
Sergio Rulz, 16 year-old CF out of Dominican Republic

Although not featuring on Cowan’s impressive performance list, the clear standout in the International Amateur class was SS Arturo Oramas, who was the Royals key target. He was successfully signed with Catcher Nelson Canjura lined up to be signed in February.



Transactions

Another quiet month for the Royals who seem happy to move forward with internal promotions and a similar roster as the AL pennant winning squad of 2039, retaining cash flexibility for in season trades.

Hall of Fame

Three new inductees into Cooperstown in 2039 as Mookie Betts is invited at the first time of asking and is joined by Bryce Harper on his 4th ballot and Gerrit Cole on his 7th. Salvador Perez is back down to 52% in his 7th year and he can see his Hall of Fame chances slipping away.

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Development Lab

Joe Davis has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to improve his strength and conditioning.

Bobby Nickelberry has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to improve his plate discipline.

Jamie Edwards has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to generate more batspeed and homerun power.

Chase Standberry has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to generate more batspeed and homerun power.

Jon Basiliere has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to generate more batspeed and homerun power.

Bob Morrison has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to improve his quality of contact.

Humberto Bustillos has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to improve his quality of contact.

Eric Jones has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to improve his pitch control.

Dan Carrig has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to improve his secondary pitch.

• No noticeable changes.

Alvaro Baladez has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working hard with staff to improve his secondary pitch.

• Potential slider stuff improves by <5
• Current slider stuff improves by <5

EthanChafin has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working hard with staff to improve his strength and conditioning.

• Successful

Billy Mumaugh has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working hard with staff to improve his strength and conditioning.

• Proneness improves from Somewhat Fragile to Somewhat Normal
• Potential power rating improves by <5

Preseason & Spring Training

The Royals start 3-0-2 in Spring Training with even more flexibility inserted into position players for this year.

Transactions & Injuries

Tuesday, February 1st , 2039
Signed international amateur C Nelson Canjura out of Venezuela to a minor league contract with a $1,400,000 signing bonus.

Thursday, February 24th , 2039
Purchased the contract of C Juan Carrillo from Double A Northwest Arkansas.
Purchased the contract of 3B David Estrada from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of SS Nate Williams from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of CF Esteban Medina from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of CF Chase Standberry from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of SP Joe Davis from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of SP Dan Carrig from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of SP Omari Hammie from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of RP David Vela from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of RP Jeremy Miller from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of RP Luis Dillard from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of RP Art Putney from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of RP Jamie Baggett from Double A Northwest Arkansas.
Purchased the contract of RP Dan Acton from Triple A Omaha.

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Development Lab

Jamie Edwards has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to improve his defense at left field.

Bobby Nickelberry has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to improve his defense at right field.

Chase Standberry has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to improve his defense at center field.

Jon Basiliere has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to improve his defense at shortstop.

Marquis Foggie has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to improve his defense at shortstop.

Jadon Tezeno has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to improve his defense at shortstop.

Juan Carrillo has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to improve his defense at catcher.

• No noticeable changes.

David Amaya has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working hard with staff to improve his defense at left field.

• Outfield arm rating improves by <5
• Outfield range rating improves by <5
• Outfield error rating improves by <5

Mike Connelly has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working hard with staff to improve his defense at left field.

• Outfield arm rating improves by 5
• Outfield range rating improves by 5
• Outfield error rating improves by <5

Nate Williams has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working hard with staff to improve his defense at shortstop.

• Infield arm rating improves by <5
• Infield range rating improves by <5
• Infield error rating improves by <5
• Turn doubleplay rating improves by <5

Mike Murphy has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working hard with staff to improve his defense at catcher.

• Catcher arm rating improves by 5
• Catcher ability rating improves by 5
• Catcher framing rating improves by 5

Steve Bakke has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working hard with staff to improve his defense at second base.

• Infield arm rating improves by 5
• Infield range rating improves by 5
• Infield error rating improves by <5
• Turn doubleplay rating improves by 5

Spring Training

The Royals go 16-8 during Spring Training, two games back from the White Sox. Plenty of players get time, pitchers to develop and position players to increase their flexibility. It is not expected that there will be too many tough choices on cut down day but a solid pre season was harmed with a few injuries during the Spring.

Transactions & Injuries

Friday, March 4th , 2039
1B Bob Crimi was injured being hit by a pitch. The diagnosis is not yet known.
Monday, March 7th , 2039
1B Bob Crimi diagnosed with a concussion, will miss 3 weeks.
Tuesday, March 15th , 2039
RP Luis Dillard was injured while pitching. The Diagnosis: acute elbow soreness. He's expected to miss about 3 months.
Thursday, March 17th , 2039
SS TJ Pompey was injured while running the bases. The diagnosis is not yet known.
Friday, March 18th , 2039
CF Esteban Medina was injured while running the bases. The Diagnosis: knee tendinitis. This is a day-to-day injury expected to last 2 weeks.
Saturday, March 19th , 2039
SS TJ Pompey diagnosed with a strained anterior cruciate ligament, will miss 6 weeks.
Thursday, March 24th , 2039
CF Esteban Medina was injured while running the bases. The Diagnosis: severe hip strain. He's expected to miss about 6 weeks.

Bob Crimi missed most of Spring Training with a concussion but will be back for the start of the season while TJ Pompey strained his ACL and will miss the first month. Neither Luis Dillard nor Esteban Medina were likely to crack the opening day roster but suffered frustrating injuries nonetheless.