"Wee" Willie Bloomquist

The only thing I can say is "Wow!" I didn't see this coming, but without him we don't have 14 wins. Through Sunday's game Willie has drawn 8 BB's compared to just 6 K's.  His OBP% stands at a staggering 462 with 4 XBH's in 43 AB's. He's also 3/4 in SB attempts. So what can we reasonably expect from him?  Something along the lines of Esteban German's fantastic year several years ago with better defense?  

"who's surprised?  not me"

via www.mattspenandpaperheroes.com

Jose Guillen

Despite his inevitable peaks and valleys, I was relieved when Jose got off the DL.  It looks as if he's not going to have his traditional slow start.  Jose's quick stroke can be devastating, like his HR in today's game that put us ahead.  Through 45 AB's Jose has 5 XBH's to go with a 360 OBP%  Could we get the Jose Guillen, circa 2003-2007?  Could he OBP 350 with 25 HR's?  If he does, the Reales look more and more like AL Central champs.

Coco Crisp

To me, Coco brings a certain unquantifiable star quality to this lineup.  He has the tantalizing speed and athleticism, making outstanding plays in CF look ordinary.  But Coco has added an element this year that hasn't previously been a part of his repertoire - the walk.  Coco now sports 17 BB's compared to just 12 K's.  He is on pace to shatter his previous career high of 50.  Coco is still only 29, and he could be primed for a career year in 2009.  Coco is walking at a 15.7% rate, compared to his 7.6% career average.  When you combine his age, athleticism, and great eye, nothing seems impossible.  His BABIP in 2009 is at 273 (career 311). His BA should rebound slowly to his career norm of around 279.  Bold prediction: 550 PA - 270/370/450 - Count me in.  And in case anyone is wondering, Coco is down with the Twitter as well.

"shields, i'll see you June 4.  You best not disrespect mah' Royals, man"

via nbcsportsmedia4.msnbc.com

Alberto Callaspo

I'm excited to get Gordon back as much as the next guy, but the saying goes "when one door closes, another opens".  Callaspo finally got the opportunity, and he's made the most of it.  Callaspo's current SLG is 570.  Like.. for real... not a typo.  And that is through 79 AB's.  Some may claim small sample size, but, we're getting surprisingly close to significant sample size territory.  Callaspo has socked 13 XBH's, including his first career HR.  He's also K'ing only 5.3% of the time (8% career) and BB'ing 8.4% (7.6% career)  Bold prediction: He's gonna hit 320/380/440 and become our #3 hitter.  Hopefully his devious days are behind him, and he becomes one of the better offensive second baggers in the AL.

Billy Butler

Ryan and Frank have noticed, and so have we; Billy's 1B defense is looking good.  He's now been used as a late inning defensive replacement, and he really does seem to have okay hands.  As we all know, he's only 23, and I really think he could become an above average first baseman.  In addition to the glove, I think Billy is primed for a breakout. He's BB'ing at 13.8% (7.8% career)  Combine his young age, hitters pedigree, increased walk rate, and a 271 BABIP, he could be a mere days away from going on a huge tear.  I wouldn't be surprised, and the Royalprospectsphere could finally take a well deserved exhale.

"i'm ready to break out like swine flu on the streets of mexico"

via kansascity.royals.mlb.com

Kevin Seitzer

What is there to add?  Not much really.  Plain and simple, we're walking more.  We're only a month in, but based on that development alone I think he's earned a B+/A- rating.  Way to go Seitz, good to see you back in the dugout 'ol pal.

Well this has been fun.  Its easy to have fun writing these things and thinking about the Royals these days.  And you know what, we've earned it.  I'm on cloud nine right now as I can imagine a lot of you are.  We're 25 games in and 14-11.  We really look like contenders.  And the best part, there is room for improvement.  Hochevar's knocking on the door, Gordon's gonna return eventually, and we're already three games above 500.  Things are looking up.

 

"I like a escalator, man, 'cause an escalator can never break. It can only become stairs." - Mitch Hedberg