Kansas City Royals Preview

2004 Record: 58-104, last in AL Central
Home Ballpark: Kauffman Stadium
Manager: Tony Pena

2005 Prediction: 62-100, last in AL Central

Newcomers:
**Chris Clapinski (2B) FA (from Indians AAA affiliate)
**Brian L. Hunter (OF) FA
Jose Lima (RP, rhp) from Dodgers
Terrence Long (OF) from Padres
Eli Marrero (OF) with Braves
Dennis Tankersley (RHP) from Padres

Gone, Goodbye:
Miguel Asencio (P) via free agency to Padres
Ryan Bukvich (RP, RHP) via Trade to Padres
Juan Gonzalez (OF) via free agency to Indians
Darrell May (SP, LHP) via Trade to Padres
Joe Randa (3B) via free agency to Reds
Desi Relaford(IF) via free agency to Rockies
Dennys Reyes (RP, lhp) via free agency to Padres
*Kelly Stinnett (C) via free agency to Diamondbacks
Benito Santiago (C) via trade with Pirates
Jorge Vasquez (RP, rhp) via trade with Braves
* signed minor league deal.
** Invited to spring training

Lineup:
David DeJesus CF
Tony Graffanino 2B
Mike Sweeney 1B
Ken Harvey DH
Terrence Long RF
Eli Marrero LF
Angel Berroa SS
John Buck C
Mark Teahen 3B

Rotation:
Zack Greinke
Jose Lima
Runelvys Hernandez
Jimmy Gobble
Dennis Tankersley

FUN FACT: The Royals won their only World Series when they beat Ozzie Smith & the St.

Outlook: Not much changed in the offseason for the low-budget Royals, who are on their way to another 100-loss season & last-place finish. Youngster Zack Greinke, the club's most promising pitcher, will be the player to watch. Veteran Royal Mike Sweeney (always capable of .300, 25 and 100) and former Oakland A Terrence Long (a solid lefty doubles hitter) provide experience, but their resumes would be better assets on a team built to win now.