Zero to Hero - A Scotsman in MLB

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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 $264,000,000 available for the total team expenses for the season.

Development Lab

Juan Bernal 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.

Arturo Oramas 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.

Kevin McDaniel 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.

• No noticeable changes.

Chris Ambrose 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

Jorge Corujo 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 center field.

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

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:

Jorge Morales, 16 year-old CF out of Dominican Republic
Jorge Morales is a long, lean athletic center fielder who was born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. He does a great job at the plate working the count and frustrating opposing pitchers. He hits the ball well with a short stroke and is expected to hit for power as his body matures and he gains experience. He has an above average power ceiling. Morales profiles as an above average player.

Ismael Uribe, 16 year-old 1B out of Venezuela
Ismael Uribe is a big 6-foot-6, 210-pound first baseman from Maracaibo, Venezuela. As he adds strength, he'll hit with more authority. He has long arms and a long swing, with above average raw power. He profiles as an above average defensive infielder. Uribe is projected to be an above average, everyday big league player.

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:
Luis Adame, 16 year-old RF out of Mexico
Frank Castorena, 16 year-old 3B out of Dominican Republic
Juan Varela, 16 year-old 2B out of Dominican Republic
Phillam Bagalso, 16 year-old 1B out of Philippines
Cornélio Canilliac, 16 year-old RF out of Brazil
Jorge Carrillo, 16 year-old 1B out of Venezuela
Luis Castro, 16 year-old RHP out of Dominican Republic
Edgar Pacheco, 17 year-old RF out of Venezuela



It was weak international class of high work ethic players which saw the Royals pivot to one of the top ranked players in the class, securing Cornelio Canilliac for $3.7m. While lacking speed, Canilliac has the potential to be a plus corner outfielder or 1B, with above average contact, a plus eye and 80 power.



Joining Canilliac in the class is 1B Ismael Uribe, a 16-year old our of Venezuela who impressed in training camp. The $1m signing fee paid to Uribe wrapped up the Royals expenditure in 2043 but the Royals are happy with the smaller class this year although both players will start in the International Complex.




Transactions

Wednesday, January 14th , 2043
Signed free agent RP Mearl Bigos to a minor league contract with a major league option.

A quiet month as the sole move made by the Royals was signing Mearl Bigos to a MiL contract, with a $1.4m option. Bigos is another reliever who compromises control for Home Run Suppression, which has been a theme of the Royals offseason RP acquisitions.



Hall of Fame

Manny Machado falls just short of induction in his 5th year with 74.8% of the vote while Corey Seager remains in the sixties (65.2%) of support and is joining by CF Julio Rodriguez (64.5) in his first year. No one else was above 50% on ballots.

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Development Lab

Luis Aguilar has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to improve his defense at third base.

• No noticeable changes (poor).

David Amaya 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.

• No noticeable changes.

Mike Woods 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.

Joe Hyatt 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

Andres Morales 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

Greg Cloward 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

Chris Kern 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.

Jadon Tezeno 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.

Natalino Villa 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.

• No noticeable changes.

Bobby Nickelberry 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

Luis Aceves has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working hard with staff to improve his two-strike approach.

• Potential avoid k's rating improves by 5
• Current avoid k's rating improves by 5

Preseason & Spring Training

The Royals avoid any preseason injuries and start 2-1 with players learning new positions and getting repititions ahead of the new season. The only invitee to Spring Training is C Jon Dickerson to make sure that the two on the ML roster don’t get too tired.

Thursday, February 26th , 2043
Purchased the contract of RP Jon Yuhas from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of CF Kevin McDaniel from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of RP Jimmy Cappello from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of RP C.J. Frazee from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of CF Chris Morrow from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of 2B Juan Parra from Triple A Omaha.
Placed RP Jimmy Cappello on the 60-day injured list.
Invited non-roster C Jon Dickerson to Spring Training camp.

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Development Lab

Chase Standberry has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to improve his base-stealing technique.

• No noticeable changes.

Chris Ambrose has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working hard with staff to improve his base-stealing technique.

Andres Raygoza has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working hard with staff to improve his base-stealing technique.

• Stealing improves by <5
• Stealing aggressiveness improves by 5

Chris Albright has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working hard with staff to improve his base-stealing technique.

Estanislau Covete has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working hard with staff to improve his base-stealing technique.

• Stealing improves by 5
• Stealing aggressiveness improves by 5

Gilberto Matos has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working hard with staff to improve his baserunning fundamentals.

• Baserunning rating improves by <5

Chris Kern 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.

• No noticeable changes (poor)

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.

• No noticeable changes.

Luis Aceves has completed his training in the development complex, and as you are aware, he has been working with staff to improve his baserunning fundamentals.

• No noticeable changes.

Ethan Chafin 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.

• No noticeable changes.

Bobby Nickelberry 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 right field.

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

Chris Morrow 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

Spring Training

A slightly underwhelming Spring Training record for the Royals as they go 15-12, which is still good enough for the best record in the AL Central with several good developments for players in learning new positions. The Royals injury card is not too bad with only a couple of players set to start the season in the injured list.

Wednesday, March 4th , 2043
RP Bernalldino Caneas was injured while pitching. The Diagnosis: finger blister. This is a day-to-day injury expected to last 2 weeks.
Thursday, March 5th , 2043
RP Jonathan DePalmer was injured while pitching. The diagnosis is not yet known.
Friday, March 6th , 2043
RP David Dettori was injured while pitching. The diagnosis is not yet known.
Saturday, March 7th , 2043
RP Jonathan DePalmer diagnosed with a stiff back, is day-to-day for 3 days.
Tuesday, March 10th , 2043
RP David Dettori diagnosed with a rotator cuff strain, will miss 3-4 weeks.
Sunday, March 15th , 2043
CF Chris Morrow was injured on a defensive play. The Diagnosis: fractured thumb. He's expected to miss about 4 weeks.
SS Chris Ambrose was injured while running the bases. The Diagnosis: strained back. This is a day-to-day injury expected to last one week.
Tuesday, March 17th , 2043
RP Edgar Medina was injured while pitching. The diagnosis is not yet known.
Wednesday, March 18th , 2043
RP Edgar Medina diagnosed with back tightness, is day-to-day for 1-2 weeks.
Friday, March 20th , 2043
Chris Ambrose has suffered a setback in his recovery. He is not expected to recover for another one week.
Placed SS Chris Ambrose on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to 03/19/2043.
Monday, March 30th , 2043
Placed SS Chris Ambrose on the active roster.

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Major League Predictions

The Royals are predicted to lead the American League with a 109-53 record, leading both runs scored and runs against. Chris Albright and Gilberto Matos are predicted to lead AL batters but surprisingly there is no place for reigning MVP Bobby Nickelberry.



The Dodgers have reloaded this offseason and are expected to be a juggernaut, with a 116-46 record. Free Agent signing RP Pat Black is predicted to have a ludicrous 19.51 K/9 rate, somewhat justifying the 3-year, $30m+ contract that the Royals weren’t willing to match.



Opening Day Lineup



Opening Day Roster Transactions

There were some difficult decisions for the Royals in the batting line up, as the Royals will open with four new players playing either everyday or in a platoon. Three of those are home grown with 2B Luis Aceves (2037 International Amateur), SS Jadon Tezeno (2037 4th Round), and CF Chris Kern (2039 2nd Round), joining LF Chris Albright (2040 Trade HOU) in making the opening day 26.

These moves see ML regular CF Chase Standberry sent down to AAA top open the season but the big departure was 1B Bob Crimi. The development of Aceves meant that the Royals were able to cash in on Crimi is his penultimate season on arbitration, the Orioles willing to give up potential plus contact, plus power IF Jorge Portillo, although they did require the Royals to retain 70% of his salary.

Wednesday, April 1st , 2043
Assigned C Jon Dickerson from Spring Training camp to Double A Northwest Arkansas.
Optioned 2B Juan Parra to Triple A Omaha.
Optioned 3B Chris Ambrose to Triple A Omaha.
Optioned CF Kevin McDaniel to Triple A Omaha.
Optioned CF Chase Standberry to Triple A Omaha.
Traded 28-year old 1B Bob Crimi (retaining 70%) to the Baltimore Orioles, getting 18-year old minor league 1B Jorge Portillo in return.

Opening Day Pitching Battery



Opening Day Roster Transactions

In the pitching batter there was another big change as Tsuguo Abe will start the season in AAA as the odd man out of Spring Training.

In addition, and one of the reasons for that, is the Eddie Baquerizo will start the season in the bullpen for the first time since 2034.

Wednesday, April 1st , 2043
Optioned RP Jon Yuhas to Triple A Omaha.
Optioned RP C.J. Frazee to Triple A Omaha.
Optioned RP Darryel Sabatino to Triple A Omaha.
Optioned RP Edgar Medina to Triple A Omaha.
Optioned RP Tsuguo Abe to Triple A Omaha.
Thursday, April 2nd , 2043
RP Jonathan DePalmer was designated for assignment and placed on waivers.
Optioned RP Julio Pesina to Triple A Omaha.

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KC Top Prospects



MLB Top Prospects



MLB Farm Systems

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MLB Standings



Kansas City Results



Kansas City Statistics





In a brilliant performance at Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City pitcher Curt Bogans entered an elite group by tossing a no-hitter against the Detroit Tigers.

In the effort, he fanned 7 and walked 2, leading the Royals to victory, 6-0.

"I was getting my off-speed stuff over so they couldn't sit on the fastball," Bogans said in the clubhouse after the game. "My guys made some nice plays behind me and cut off several hits, too."

Transactions & Injuries

Thursday, April 2nd , 2043
SP Joe Davis was injured while pitching. The diagnosis is not yet known.
Friday, April 3rd , 2043
SP Joe Davis diagnosed with a sore ankle, is day-to-day for 4 days.
Saturday, April 4th , 2043
RP Naquan Darrisaw was claimed off waivers from Los Angeles.
2B Nelson Maldonado was claimed off waivers from Seattle.
Optioned RP David Dettori to Triple A Omaha.
Monday, April 6th , 2043
Signed SS Jadon Tezeno to a 10-year contract extension worth a total of $129,000,000.
Tuesday, April 7th , 2043
CF Natalino Villa was injured while running the bases. The Diagnosis: torn hamstring. He's expected to miss about 3-4 weeks.
Optioned 2B Nelson Maldonado to Class A Columbia.
Purchased the contract of CF Chase Standberry from Triple A Omaha.
Wednesday, April 8th , 2043
SP Joe Davis was injured while pitching. The diagnosis is not yet known.
Thursday, April 9th , 2043
SP Joe Davis diagnosed with a sore elbow, is day-to-day for 2 weeks.
Assigned RP Jonathan DePalmer to Triple A Omaha.
Friday, April 10th , 2043
Optioned CF Chris Morrow to Triple A Omaha.
Tuesday, April 14th , 2043
Assigned RP Naquan Darrisaw to Triple A Omaha.
Wednesday, April 29th , 2043
SP Joe Davis was injured while pitching. The Diagnosis: sore elbow. This is a day-to-day injury expected to last 3 days.

The big news of the month was SS Jadon Tezeno signing a long-term contract with the club. The last two years of the decade-long contract are Team Options, with an AAV of $12.9m. A 114 wRC+ first month in the big leagues showing why the Royals were happy to make that commitment.

Minor League News

Arturo Oramas made his presence known as one of the best young stars in the International League this past month.

The Omaha Storm Chasers shortstop shined through the month of April and has won the Batter of the Month award.

The 21-year-old hit .453 with 9 home runs, 32 RBIs and 22 runs scored.

Omaha Storm Chasers hurler Mike Ramos was rewarded today with the International League Pitcher of the Month honors. Ramos, 23, realizes that pitching isn't all about how hard you can throw, it's about accuracy and about picking yourself up even when you've had a run of bad luck.

"I'd like to say I don't give them anything to hit," said the Omaha starter, "but that's not true. Every pitcher gives up a long ball now and then. Usually there's at least one mistake in each at-bat, but you've got to battle through your mistakes and build some positive momentum. The rest will fall into place."

Things did fall into place for Ramos. In April he took the ball for 35.1 innings while notching 26 strikeouts, a 2.04 ERA and a 4-0 record.

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MLB Standings



Kansas City Results



Kansas City Statistics





Transactions & Injuries

Friday, May 1st , 2043
Sent CF Natalino Villa to Triple A Omaha for injury rehab.
Placed SP Joe Davis on the 15-day injured list, retroactive to 04/29/2043.
Purchased the contract of SP Tsuguo Abe from Triple A Omaha.
Saturday, May 2nd , 2043
Granted SS Kazunori Sakamoto free agency because of a contract clause.
RP Mearl Bigos did not elect for free agency and will remain in the Kansas City organization.
Thursday, May 7th , 2043
Optioned RP Jimmy Cappello to Triple A Omaha.
Friday, May 8th , 2043
Optioned CF Chase Standberry to Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of CF Natalino Villa from Triple A Omaha.
Tuesday, May 12th , 2043
SP Curt Bogans was injured while pitching. The diagnosis is not yet known.
Wednesday, May 13th , 2043
Placed SP Curt Bogans on the 15-day injured list, retroactive to 05/12/2043.
SP Curt Bogans diagnosed with forearm tendinitis, will miss 2 weeks.
Thursday, May 14th , 2043
SP Ben Lane was injured while pitching. The diagnosis is not yet known.
RP Nate Avis was injured while pitching. The Diagnosis: strained oblique. This is a day-to-day injury expected to last 3 weeks.
Friday, May 15th , 2043
SP Ben Lane diagnosed with a strained oblique, is day-to-day for 3-4 weeks.
Placed SP Joe Davis on the active roster.
Activated SP Joe Davis from the injured list.
Tuesday, May 19th , 2043
2B Luis Aceves was injured being hit by a pitch. The diagnosis is not yet known.
Sunday, May 24th , 2043
Placed 2B Luis Aceves on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to 05/21/2043.
Purchased the contract of 3B Chris Ambrose from Triple A Omaha.
2B Luis Aceves diagnosed with a fractured thumb, will miss 3-4 weeks.
Friday, May 29th , 2043
RP Nate Avis was injured while pitching. The diagnosis is not yet known.
Saturday, May 30th , 2043
RP Nate Avis diagnosed with shoulder inflammation, will miss 4-5 months.
Recalled RP Julio Pesina from Triple A Omaha.
Sunday, May 31st , 2043
Sent SP Curt Bogans to Triple A Omaha for injury rehab.

A mix of injury and recovery over the course of the month with the two major pieces of news were the loss of Nate Avis, potentially for the rest of the year and the first promotion to the ML for 2038 4th Round pick Chris Ambrose, called up after Luis Aceves’ injury.

Minor League News

Chad Johnston was feeling calm about his no-hitter -- until the last three outs.

"You really become conscious of every pitch at that point," he said. "The adrenaline level kicks up even higher. Everybody in the ballpark knows a no-hitter is on the line. The crowd is on its feet. One mistake and it's all over."

There were no mistakes to be had for Johnston on this day at Segra Park. The Columbia Fireflies right-hander was in complete command, not allowing the Delmarva Shorebirds a single base hit in the 15-0 victory.

"Obviously, you never think this will happen," he said to BNN reporters after the game. "I don't know if it's really sunk in yet."

Johnston faced 30 batters, had 12 strikeouts and gave up 5 walks in a dominating effort.

"He was on from the get-go," Shorebirds manager Andy Oliver said. "He was hitting his spots and keeping us off balance. It was a great game by him."

In 7 starts this season, Johnston has gathered 5 wins while suffering no losses. He has pitched 39.2 innings, allowed 16 hits, struck out 51 and has a 2.04 ERA.

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MLB Standings



Kansas City Results



Kansas City Statistics




A hot-hitting Estanislau Covete punished AL pitchers in June, hitting .292 in 27 games while racking up 11 home runs, 28 RBIs and 24 runs scored.

With those numbers it came as no surprise that Kansas City's 24-year-old first baseman earned American League Batter of the Month honors.

This year, Covete is batting .304 with 21 home runs and 62 RBIs.

Jadon Tezeno earned top rookie honors in the American League with a solid performance last month.

In June the Kansas City shortstop posted a .337 average while racking up 35 hits, 6 home runs and 25 RBIs.

Tezeno is hitting .267 this season with 12 home runs, 45 RBIs and 33 runs scored. He has 73 hits in 273 at-bats.

Estanislau Covete captured all the headlines last week and today he added to his booty with the American League Player of the Week trophy.

The Kansas City Royals first baseman hammered league hurlers for 12 hits in 27 at-bats, a .444 average and 5 home runs. He also collected 12 RBIs and 8 runs scored.

Currently Covete has 15 home runs and a .330 batting average.

Edgar Mir was sizzling at the plate. The Kansas City second baseman blistered the Texas Rangers for 5 hits in 5 at-bats, but couldn't prevent his club from falling to defeat, 9-8.

"Mir was too tough to get out today," Rangers skipper Jonathan Guzman said in a postgame interview. "No matter what we threw him, he hit it. And he hit some good pitches, too. But hey, I don't mind if every game somebody gets 5 hits off us, as long as we win."

Edgar Mir singled in the 1st, singled in the 3rd, hit a two-run home run off Andres Contreras in the 5th, singled in the 7th and singled in the 9th.

To date, Mir has collected 66 hits for a .242 average. He has posted 16 home runs, scored 57 runs and driven in 45 runs.

Kansas City's Bobby Nickelberry went 4-for-5 at Kauffman Stadium and hit for the cycle, collecting all four types of hits and 3 RBIs. Still, his effort was not enough to overcome the San Diego Padres, who won the game, 8-7.

"I tried not to think about it at the time, although after the third hit, it snuck into my mind," Nickelberry told reporters. "The crowd certainly made sure I knew in that last at-bat that I was going for the cycle."

Bobby Nickelberry struck out in the 1st, tripled in the 3rd, singled in the 5th, hit an RBI double in the 7th and hit a two-run home run off Ismael Moreno in the 9th.

This year, Nickelberry has hit 15 home runs and posted a .257 batting average.



The Pitcher of the Month for June has been picked and the American League award went to Kansas City hurler, Dan Carrig.

During the month, Carrig was impressive with a 2.74 ERA and 3 wins and no losses. In 42.2 innings he struck out 43 and gave up 39 hits and 14 walks.

So far this year, Carrig has compiled a 8-1 record with a 2.72 ERA.
Kansas City is abuzz in the wake of a masterful no-hitter by Ethan Chafin.

The 29-year-old hurler was dominating against the Boston Red Sox, leading the Royals to a 6-0 win at Kauffman Stadium.

"I could tell early on that it was going to be a long day for us," Boston manager Rich Mascheri said afterward. "He made us look real bad. He was that good. And still going strong at the end of the game."

Chafin had 10 strikeouts and gave up 6 walks en route to the no-hitter.

"Yeah, this was a special day for me," Chafin said. "I had my good stuff and good movement. Good location, too. Even when I made a mistake, I got away with it today."

In 15 starts this season, Chafin has registered a 7-2 record and a 3.56 ERA.

Transactions & Injuries

Wednesday, June 3rd , 2043
1B Gilberto Matos was injured while running the bases. The Diagnosis: sprained ankle. He's expected to miss about 8 weeks.
Purchased the contract of 2B Juan Parra from Triple A Omaha.
Friday, June 12th , 2043
Optioned RP Tsuguo Abe to Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of SP Curt Bogans from Triple A Omaha.
Monday, June 15th , 2043
SP Ben Lane was injured while pitching. The diagnosis is not yet known.
Tuesday, June 16th , 2043
Sent 2B Luis Aceves to Triple A Omaha for injury rehab.
SP Curt Bogans was injured while pitching. The diagnosis is not yet known.
Thursday, June 18th , 2043
SP Curt Bogans diagnosed with forearm tendinitis, will miss 4 weeks.
Purchased the contract of SP Tsuguo Abe from Triple A Omaha.
Friday, June 19th , 2043
SP Ben Lane diagnosed with a torn rotator cuff, will miss 4-5 months.
SP Joe Davis was injured while pitching. The Diagnosis: herniated disc (back). He's expected to miss about one week.
Purchased the contract of SP Joe Randolph from Triple A Omaha.

The Royals lose ace Ben Lane for the remainder of the season, and Curt Bogans for a month among pitchers, with Gilberto Matos to miss two months. No trades in June but the Royals will certainly be looking at Starting Pitching before the trade deadline although 2040 trade acquisition (from the Astros) Joe Randolph will get a chance to impress.

Minor League News

The elite pitcher this past month in the Texas League was Edgar Portela of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. He stood head and shoulders above the rest, finishing June with an extraordinary 4-0 record and a 1.16 ERA.

The Naturals star hurler made 5 starts and surrendered 15 hits in 38.2 innings. He struck out 32 and walked 11.

This year, Portela has gone 8-3 with an ERA of 1.83 and has 97 strikeouts in 98.1 innings.

The best pitcher this past month in the Carolina League was Frank Suniga of the Columbia Fireflies. He really razzle-dazzled league hitters, finishing June with a standout 4-0 record and 0.76 ERA.

The Fireflies hurler made 5 starts and surrendered 15 hits in 35.1 innings. He struck out 42 and walked 5.

This year, Suniga has made 14 starts, thrown 83.2 innings, fanned 88 batters and walked 12. His won-lost record is 6-2 with a 1.83 ERA.

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The Royals have eight All Stars made, and only one pitcher, showing where the Royals strength is this season. Anaya is the sole pitcher, making his first All Star game. Five first time position player All Stars for the Royals, with C Zach Herr making the decision to move on from Sam Hart last offseason the right decision, while Estanislau Covete, Jadon Tezeno, Chris Albright, and Natalino Villa have all had stellar years to earn their first selection. In addition to the first years, Gilberto Matos makes his second All Star game despite missing 7 weeks, and Edgar Mir makes his 7th All Star. Not on the list is Bobby Nickelberry who has struggled in his sophomore season.

CL Juan Anaya (KC) - 4-3, 12 SV, 2.58 ERA, 45.1 IP, 0.97 WHIP, 15.1 K/9, 1.8 WAR
C Zach Herr (KC) - .265/.323/.462, 260 AB, 12 HR, 109 wRC+, 1.6 WAR
1B Estanislau Covete (KC)* - .301/.355/.649, 342 AB, 28 HR, 6 SB, 162 wRC+, 3.9 WAR
1B Gilberto Matos (KC)* - .289/.397/.547, 201 AB, 11 HR, 1 SB, 154 wRC+, 1.8 WAR (Injured)
2B Edgar Mir (KC) - .233/.355/.460, 326 AB, 19 HR, 23 SB, 119 wRC+, 3.6 WAR
SS Jadon Tezeno (KC) - .276/.349/.471, 323 AB, 14 HR, 2 SB, 117 wRC+, 2.6 WAR
LF Chris Albright (KC)* - .265/.365/.478, 343 AB, 14 HR, 39 SB, 127 wRC+, 3.4 WAR
CF Natalino Villa (KC) - .346/.366/.560, 243 AB, 4 HR, 21 SB, 146 wRC+, 3.0 WAR

Three former Royals are selected as All Stars as Mike Thomas continues to be an elite player while Bob Morrison is hitting .293 to exceed best expectations Philidelphia could have and Billy Mumaugh has remain healthy and has a 152 wRC+ for the season.

LF Mike Thomas (HOU)* - .295/.378/.535, 342 AB, 16 HR, 14 SB, 145 wRC+, 3.4 WAR
SS Bob Morrison (PHI) - .293/.379/.478, 324 AB, 12 HR, 134 wRC+, 3.1 WAR
LF Billy Mumaugh (PHI) - .270/.421/.498, 319 AB, 17 HR, 9 SB, 152 wRC+, 3.5 WAR



Natalino Villa has the game-winning hit in the bottom of the ninth the win the All Star Game for the American League, as he goes 1-2 with an RBI. Jadon Tezeno (0-2), Chris Albright (0-3), and Edgar Mir (0-1, BB) aren’t as successful although Estanislau Covete went 2-3. Juan Anaya pitched a 1-hit inning of 19 pitches.



The majority of the batting line up has excelled for the Royals, evidenced by the All Star selections. The only disappointments being Bobby Nickelberry (101 wRC+) in his sophomore season, and Chris Armbrose (71 wRC+) and Luis Aceves (60 wRC+).



The Royals have struggled once again for starting pitching with several players missing time, including losing reigning AL Cy Young award winner Ben Lane for the season, and two-time Cy Young winner Curt Bogans for substantial time. Dan Carrig has been solid, as has Ethan Chafin and Joe David, but the Royals will need to keep 4 pitchers healthy if they are going to challenge the top teams come the playoffs.

In the bullpen, there has been high attrition rates but all of the players currently in the pen have a FIP- under 100, and the Royals will hope that they can stay healthy and effective although should an extra arm present itself on the trade market the Royals would definitely be keen to find another stopper.

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Owner Goals



Team Record:
I'm very excited by how the team has performed so far. If you keep this up, you certainly have a great chance to win it all!

Acquire a player:
Let me say this again: Bring in a Hometown player. I look at the roster now, and I can only assume that you didn't hear me when I told you this the first time. I do not like to be ignored!

Improve your team record:
Progress has been made in extra-inning games. Still room for improvement, however.

During our time working together, I have been very happy with your progress towards the goals I have set out for you. I feel similarly about your handling of the team's on-field and front office management.

The final evaluation towards these goals will come at the end of the season. Good luck in the second half!


Prospect Performance



2043 Draft

The Royals had the 30th pick in what was a very poor draft year and so were happy to pick up SP Tim Parsons, a high school prospect with potential for plus stuff, movement, and average control, with plus plus Home Run Avoidance (something the Royals are looking to prioritise after the challenges of recent years). His two major risks, outside of his control, are that he is a three-pitch pitcher, and that his hold runners is organisational piece level.



Round 2, Pick 30 - RF Eric McCabe, age 18 out of high school
Round 2, Pick 34 - SS Franyerber Baesman, age 18 out of high school
Round 3, Pick 21 - SS Zach Wells, age 18 out of high school
Round 4, Pick 27 - CF Domingo Carrillo, age 19 out of high school
Round 5, Pick 29 - 2B Branson Huot, age 17 out of high school

The Royals signed all 21 of their draft class with 20 of the drafted players sent to Rookie ball, the exception being 14th round pick C.J. Roush, who will start in A ball.

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MLB Standings



Kansas City Results



Kansas City Statistics




Natalino Villa put on a hitting clinic as the Kansas City Royals dumped the St. Louis Cardinals, 12-8, at Busch Stadium.

The Kansas City center fielder made St. Louis defenders earn their pay, lashing St. Louis pitching for 5 hits in 5 at-bats in the game. He told BNN reporters after the game that his strategy was "just hit it where they pitched it."

"Too often I try too hard to pull the ball," Villa said in his postgame press conference. "Today, I just went with the pitch."

Natalino Villa singled in the 2nd, doubled in the 4th, singled in the 5th, singled in the 7th and singled in the 8th.

To date Villa has chalked up a .339 average with 4 home runs, driven in 32 runs and scored 38 times.



Transactions & Injuries

Sunday, July 5th , 2043
Optioned 2B Andres Raygoza to Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of 2B Luis Aceves from Triple A Omaha.
Saturday, July 11th , 2043
RP Alvaro Baladez was injured while pitching. The Diagnosis: forearm stiffness. He's expected to miss about one week.
Purchased the contract of RP David Dettori from Triple A Omaha.
Wednesday, July 15th , 2043
Sent SP Curt Bogans to Triple A Omaha for injury rehab.
Monday, July 20th , 2043
Traded 25-year old minor league CF Kevin McDaniel, 19-year old minor league C Ippolito Labrit, and 21-year old RHP Joe Randolph to the Washington Nationals, getting 29-year old RHP Mike Herzner (retaining 90%) in return.
Placed SP Mike Herzner on the active roster.
Thursday, July 23rd , 2043
Traded 22-year old minor league SS Kelington Raw, 22-year old minor league LF David Amaya, 20-year old minor league 2B Mike Andonian, 23-year old 2B Juan Parra (retaining 100%), 20-year old minor league RHP Dashawn Ledgister, and $50,000,000 in cash to the Cleveland Guardians, getting 26-year old LHP Greg Moehring (retaining 50%) in return.
Placed SP Greg Moehring on the active roster.
Optioned RP Bernalldino Caneas to Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of 2B Andres Raygoza from Triple A Omaha.
Saturday, July 25th , 2043
Sent 1B Gilberto Matos to Triple A Omaha for injury rehab.
Sunday, July 26th , 2043
LF Chris Albright was injured while running the bases. The diagnosis is not yet known.
Monday, July 27th , 2043
Sent RP Alvaro Baladez to Triple A Omaha for injury rehab.
Tuesday, July 28th , 2043
LF Chris Albright diagnosed with a torn hamstring, will miss 3-4 weeks.
Purchased the contract of CF Chase Standberry from Triple A Omaha.
Thursday, July 30th , 2043
Traded $5,000,000 in cash to the Miami Marlins, getting 37-year old RHP Dan Nichols (retaining 80%) in return.
Optioned RP Tsuguo Abe to Triple A Omaha.
Placed CL Dan Nichols on the active roster.
Optioned RP David Dettori to Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of SP Curt Bogans from Triple A Omaha.

The Royals were as active as they have ever been in July as they brought on three pitchers to try to bring that side of the club up the level of the bats.

The first move was to bring in SP Mike Herzner from the Nationals, with Washington retaining most of what could end up a three year contract (including a third year Player Option). Herzner was pencilled in as a fourth or fifth starter.

As the deadline approached the Royals checked in with some of the teams out of the reckoning and ended up with a shortlist of five pitcher. However, the upside of Greg Moehring was too high to ignore and the Royals paid for the privilege of his potential seven year contract (although there is a Player Option after the 2044 season and the Guardians will retain half of his salary). Moving to the Guardians were the Royals 2041 1st rounder pick Mike Andonian, 2039 4th pick Kellington Raw, and 2036 International Amateur, 42-man member Juan Parra, along with RP prospect Dashawn Ledgister, and CF prospect David Amaya. The Royals also added a lot of cash to offset some of the salary retention.

The final move from the Royals was to reunite with Dan Nichols. Nichols was on the trade block and the Royals were able to pick up Nichols for cash, with the Marlins retaining the majority of the contract. This was a no lose deal for the Royals who now have a surplus of pitching options heading into the final two months of the regular season.

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MLB Standings



Kansas City Results



Kansas City Statistics




Chris Kern was acclaimed the American League Rookie of the Month for his fine play in August.

The 25-year-old Kansas City right fielder hit .310, swatted 6 home runs and drove in 17 runs. He also tagged 27 hits, scored 24 runs and picked up 15 walks for a .413 on-base percentage.

This season, Kern has delivered 83 hits in 290 at-bats for a .286 average with 11 home runs. He is getting on base at a .399 clip and his totals also include 40 RBIs and 56 runs scored. This year Kern has played in 85 games.

A hot-hitting week got Chris Kern the American League Player of the Week trophy. He really wore out his welcome with league pitchers.

The Kansas City right fielder slammed them for a .478 average, 11 hits in 23 at-bats, 3 home runs, 9 RBIs and scored 9 runs.

In the postgame press conference, Kern shared his hitting philosophy with the BNN scribes: "Just look for the seams and hit between them... nothin' more than that."

Kern is hitting .289 in 2043 with 37 RBIs and 10 home runs.



Dan Carrig handcuffed the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field, coming away with a 2-hit, complete game shutout.

"I had everything working for me out there," the Kansas City Royals left-hander said later. "I used every one of my pitches, hit both sides of the plate really well and felt like I could do whatever I wanted."

With his stuff working, Carrig had little trouble with the Guardians and led the Royals to victory, 10-0. He recorded 5 strikeouts and 3 walks in an impressive performance.

So far this year, Carrig has made 23 starts, tossed 144 innings, struck out 150 batters and walked 42. His record is 11-2 with a 3.06 ERA and he has limited opposing teams to a .227 batting average.

Transactions & Injuries

Saturday, August 1st , 2043
Optioned 1B Luis Aceves to Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of 1B Gilberto Matos from Triple A Omaha.
Sunday, August 2nd , 2043
RP Joe Manley was injured while pitching. The Diagnosis: herniated disc (back). He's expected to miss about one week.
Tuesday, August 4th , 2043
CF Natalino Villa was injured while running the bases. The diagnosis is not yet known.
Wednesday, August 5th , 2043
CF Natalino Villa diagnosed with a knee sprain, is day-to-day for 3 weeks.
Tuesday, August 11th , 2043
CF Natalino Villa was injured while running the bases. The Diagnosis: sprained knee. This is a day-to-day injury expected to last 2 weeks.
Saturday, August 22nd , 2043
Placed CF Natalino Villa on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to 08/19/2043.
Purchased the contract of LF Chris Albright from Triple A Omaha.
Tuesday, August 25th , 2043
RP Alvaro Baladez was designated for assignment and placed on waivers.

Natalino Villa suffered several day-to-day injuries and with Chris Albright’s return took the opportunity to give him 10 days on the injury list.

Minor League News

Omaha fans certainly took notice of Luis Aceves's performance in August.

The 23-year-old first baseman had .322 batting average, with 9 home runs, 20 RBIs, 23 runs scored and a .435 on-base percentage.

It all culminated in him being named the International League Batter of the Month.

On the year, Aceves has hit .311 with 16 home runs, 36 RBIs and scored 35 runs.

The premier pitcher this past month in the Texas League was Frank Suniga of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. He was one mighty tough pitcher, finishing August with a sensational 3-0 record and a 1.65 ERA.

The Naturals star made 6 starts and surrendered 29 hits in 43.2 innings. He struck out 40 and walked 6.

So far this season, Suniga has compiled a 3-1 record with a 2.89 ERA.

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MLB Standings



Kansas City Results

September is the month of celebrations for the Royals once again. On 11 September, the Royals clinched their playoff sport with a 9-2 victory over the Twins. Three days later, the Royals defeated the Red Sox 7-4 to clinch another pennant, their 12th of the Stewart era, 20th of all time, and 8th in a row.

Their 100th win of the season came in the 2nd game of a 19 September double header against Pittsburgh.



Kansas City Statistics





American League pitchers tried and tried all week long to stop Bobby Nickelberry, but to no avail.

His eyes would light up when he came to the plate and he hit everything in sight, batting .769 for the week to win the AL Player of the Week Award. The Kansas City right fielder cracked 10 hits in 13 at-bats, 2 home runs, drove in 4 runs and scored 6 times.

This year, Nickelberry has hit at a .289 pace and produced 112 RBIs, 33 home runs and scored 95 runs.

The Cleveland Guardians managed to overcome a remarkable performance from Bobby Nickelberry to grab a hard-fought 4-3 win over the Kansas City Royals.

In a losing effort, Nickelberry hit for the cycle for the Royals, tallying 1 single, 1 double, 1 triple and 1 home run. He went 4-for-4 and added 2 RBI and 2 runs scored, but speaking with reporters after the game, Nickelberry dismissed talk about the cycle.

"I'm not the first guy to hit for the cycle and I won't be the last," he said. "It's a small mention in some record book somewhere. I'd be just fine going 2-for-4 in a win."

Bobby Nickelberry doubled in the 2nd, singled in the 4th, hit an RBI triple in the 6th and hit a solo-shot off Santiago Helena in the 9th.

So far this year, Nickelberry has 32 home runs and a .283 batting average.



Transactions & Injuries

Tuesday, September 1st , 2043
Placed CF Natalino Villa on the active roster.
Purchased the contract of SP Tsuguo Abe from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of 1B Luis Aceves from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of RP David Dettori from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of SP Darryel Sabatino from Triple A Omaha.
Purchased the contract of CF Chase Standberry from Triple A Omaha.
Assigned RP Alvaro Baladez to Triple A Omaha.
Wednesday, September 9th , 2043
SP Joe Davis diagnosed with a strained biceps, is day-to-day for 2-3 weeks.
Friday, September 25th , 2043
RF Bobby Nickelberry was injured being hit by a pitch. The Diagnosis: fractured finger. He's expected to miss about 4 weeks.
Sunday, September 27th , 2043
Sent SP Joe Davis to Triple A Omaha for injury rehab.

The Royals promote several arms and bats as part of September expansion to rest players over the final month of the season. Unfortunately, Bobby Nickelberry is lost likely for the season with a fractured finger. Joe Davis will get a couple of starts in an injury rehab, however, to put himself in the mix for the postseason.