Cactus League Game 4: Road Show

The Royals first true road test of the spring. And what a fun lineup.

Norichika Aoki - CF
Danny Valencia - 2B
Eric Hosmer - 1B
Justin Maxwell - DH
Mike Moustakas - 3B
Carlos Peguero - LF
Lorenzo Cain - RF
Brett Hayes - C
Pedro Ciriaco - SS

This is your public service reminder that Valencia has never played an inning at second base in a major league game. This is also your public service reminder that the odds are strong the Royals will break camp without a true backup middle infielder. I'm not sure why they flipped-flopped positions for Aoki and Cain. And Salvador Perez truly gets his first day off of the spring.

Wade Davis opens the game and will be followed by Yordano Ventura. Also scheduled are John Lamb, Jon Rauch, Francisley Bueno, P.J. Walters and Michael Mariot.

Game prep:

Jason Vargas successful in two-inning outing for Kansas City Royals in win over Padres
Just for funsies... the official Royals.com recap from yesterday.

Royals manager Ned Yost loosens the reins as he adjusts to a new generation of players
Interesting work from the new guy on the beat as he dives into the psyche of Frank Ned Yost.

Infante’s sore shoulder exposes roster pain for Royals
The lack of backup middle infielder? We're not the only ones who have noticed.

Pine Tar Press - Position Rankings – Outfield
Clint is ranking the prospects by position. His latest look breaks down the outfield.

Royals Blue - Comparing Spring Training Results To Regular Season
The bullies of spring don't push many teams around come April.

Kings of Kauffman - Why the Royals Will Win the American League Central
Ahhhh... Optimism.