As is obvious to everyone in the universe, the Royals need starting pitching. Everyone knows what the Royals need to do between now and next year's opening day: acquire at least two legitimate starting pitchers. My opening day staff for the Royals currently consists of the following:

Luke Hochevar (I think they tender him)

Bruce Chen (I don't think they trade him)

One could make a case that Mendoza figures in as an option, but so could Everett Teaford, Nate Adcock, and Will Smith. Because Odirizzi hasn't done it yet, I personally would not count on him to be in next year's opening rotation, although I think he will be the first guy called up if a starter is needed once the season starts.

So, I would think that there are at least two spots open for next year. Al Czervik and I were discussing the future of the Royals' plans today, and wondered whether or not they will actually pull the trigger on just ONE significant acquisition, either by trade or free agency. For the record, after a very lengthy pause, I concluded that they will bring in at least one guy (someone like A. Sanchez, Marcum, Edwin Jackson).

So, the poll is simple: