14 for 77 Minor League Recap 4/13/11

14for77 Hitter of the Day NONE

14for77 Pitcher of the Day Tim Melville 6 IP 5 H 1 ER 7 K 1 BB

Blue Rocks Recap
There was a terrific pitching matchup in Kinston today as Tim Melville battled Drew Pomeranz the 2010 5th overall pick. I'll let JJ Cooper via Twitter describe the action @jjcoop36.
Pomeranz sitting 93 in first three up three down
Melville gets out of trouble in first. Control problems with first batter then settles down. Sitting 92-93 gets a strikeout on solid change

2nd Inning
Pomeranz strikes out two in three up three down second. Pretty easy velo. Got one K with slow curve other just threw fastball by guy
Melville gives up solo home run on 91 fb in second. Recovers to strike out next batter relying on cb and ch

3rd Inning
Bottom of wilmington lineup doesn't have much chance. Pomeranz Ks two more in third. First time through one ball out of IF.
Getting ks with 91-93 Fb nice curve
both utilizing good sized zone
Thru 3 Innings Pomeranz 0 hits 5 K 0 BB
Tim Melville 2 hits 1 ER via HR 3 K 1 BB

Pomeranz has faced minimum through five. Toying with hitters. Fb has settled in at 91-92, 80-82 change slower 77-78 cb

Melville pitching well also. Last two innings 17 strikes in 19 pitches. Working both sides of plate. Using off speed well second time thru

Pomeranz loses no hitter on final batter he faces. Lifted at 85 pitches. Was tired. Last inning his fb sat 89-90. Hasn't dipped below 90 b4

Melville likely done as well after 83 pitches, 55 strikes. Was impressive. Maintained velo used cb and ch well. Was still touching 93 in 6th

Final Lines
Tim Melville Win 6 IP 5 H 1 ER 7 K 1 BB
Drew Pomeranz ND 5.2 IP 1 H 1 R 0 ER 8 K 2 BB

Melville doesn't have the same upper end stuff as Pomeranz but at this point in the season does a better job of maintaining it has he was pretty much the same pitcher if not better by the end of the start as he was at the beginning. The Blue Rocks got another run across in the 7th and that is all they needed as their bullpen shut the door from there. Kelvin Herrera and Kevin Chapman came in throwing the next 3 innings allowing just one infield single and striking out 5. Herrera was 96 on the stadium gun. Great pitching beats good pitching.

Storm Chasers Recap
The Chasers offense has went missing. Have you seen it? I have been watching and I certaintly have not seen it for a while, well at least for 21 innings. Last nights game perhaps they just ran into a Ace in the making in Neil Ramirez who breezed thru Moose, Hos and company as it took him 75 pitches (50 strikes) to get thru 6 innings allowing just 3 singles while striking out 5 against no walks. The Chasers didn't get a runner to 2nd base on the night ruining a solid outing by Jeff Suppan who went 5.1 giving up 6 hits and one long solo home run to Taylor Teagarden. The Chasers fall to 2-5 on the season.

Cougars Recap
Sugar Ray Marimon took a tough loss in his second start of the season going 5 innings allowing just 3 hits 2 runs (1 ER) and 4 walks as the 2 runs in the 5th were all it took for Quad City to secure a victory. Kane County had tough sledding against Rosenthal as he went 7 innings against just 1 run on 4 hits for the victory. More tough pitching for the Cougars tomorrow as they try to salvage the last game of this four game set.

Royals Minor League Daily Tap Mon April 11

Good day for the Royals as the major league team finished off a series win over the Tigers and the affiliates won 4 of the 5 games that they played in.

Daily Tap Hitter of the Day Ryan Stovall Kane County 3-4 HR 4 RBI

Daily Tap Pitcher of the Day Blake Johnson NW Arkansas 4 IP 1 H 5 So 0 BB

Cougars Recap
Alex Llanos capped a terrific series versus the Timber Rattlers getting the offense going with a two run homer in the third that woke up the offense which tagged on seven more runs on the day. Llanos finished the four game set strong with multiple hit games in the final three games. It wasn't an offense only show as Keaton Hayenga got his 2011 season off to a good start going 5 innings allowing only 3 hits, 2 runs (1 ER) and no walks against 4 strikeouts. This was a good sign for a pitcher that really struggled last year.

Alex Llanos (series) 6-17 2-2b, 1-3b, 1-HR 1 BB

Blue Rocks Recap
The Rocks resumed their rain suspended game on Sunday tied at five. They had Kelvin Herrera a former starter converted closer toe the hill and he delivered two solid innings striking out 4 while giving up just 1 hit and one walk. Herrera has a solid fastball to go with a potential above average curve and change up out of his 5'10 frame. Those two innings allowed the Rocks to mount an offensive charge in the 11th when Rey Navarro reached on a error and was driven in on a John Whittleman double, Whittleman would score on a Tim Ferguson double. That extra run came in handy when Kevin Chapman allowed a run in the bottom of the inning but hung on for the Rocks victory.

In the full game of the day the Rocks squandered a great pitching performance by Jake Odorizzi (4 IP 4 H 1 ER 6 K 1 BB) when they allowed a 2 run 8th inning to lose the lead and the game. Rey Navarro once again paced the offense with 2 hits in 3 at bats driving in a run while also scoring one. The young 2b/SS who the Royals picked up in the Carlos Rosa deal finished the series 7 for 12 with a double, triple and Home Run.
Nick Francis 4th OF assist of the season

Naturals Recap
The Naturals for the second day in a row won in walk off fashion when Wil Myers drove in Nick Van Stratten with a single in the 14th inning. Myers and Salvador Perez who had gotten off to slow starts enjoyed good days offensively as they had 5 of the 11 Naturals hits. The pitching was outstanding on the day as Rollins, Blake Johnson and Patrick Keating all pitched at least 3 innings each while combining for 12 strikeouts against only 2 walks and 5 hits while allowing only 2 runs (1 ER). Brandon Sisk worked a scoreless hitless 14th to get earn the victory for the Naturals.
Salvador Perez 2-5 2b, HR, Wil Myers 3-6 2b, BB

Chasers Recap
Despite a poor performance by Vin Mazzaro (2.1 IP 2H 7 BB 5 ER 3 K) the Storm Chasers offense and bullpen were able to overcome the Isotopes in the final game of their four day set. 8 of the 9 hitters in the lineup reached base via hit while the bottom third (Pina,Blanco,Orlando) of the order did the heavy lifting driving in 5 of the runs while scoring five also. The bullpen slowed down the Isotopes offense limiting them to 1 run and 4 hits over the final 6.2 innings to gain a split in the series.
Mike Moustakas 2-5 HR

Quad City River Bandits (Cardinals) Kevin Siegrist
at
Kane County Cougars Crawford Simmons

Simmons one of the Burlington(NC) three from last year makes his first start of the year. Simmons is a control lefty who throws in the high 80s topping out at 90-91 with feel for a change up and 12-6 curve. Simmons has solid command (2.2 BB/9 '10) and is a couple velocity ticks away from becoming a prospect worth watching for Royals fans.

Siegrist is a 41st rd draft pick who enjoyed some success early in his career making it to the High A level in his first two years where he enjoyed moderate success despite a 1.416 WHIP when he returned last year he was knocked around for over a hit per inning. Siegrist according to reports has decent movement on his mid 80s fastball while also featuring a cutter and forkball.

Wilmington Blue Rocks Noel Arguelles
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Kinston Indians Giovanni Soto

This is a day that has long been in the works for the Royals and their staff. Arguelles signed a $7 million dollar major league deal with the Royals which was quite a coup as not many favored the Royals in the chase for his services. Unfortunately he sustained some arm problems and was forced to sit out last season. Arguelles is a physical specimen who throws in the low 90s from a 3/4 arm slot and has earned some comparison to Francisco Liriano.

Soto is a young lefty that the Indians received in the Jhonny Peralta trade with Detroit. He's young for the level (19) and performed well at High A last year when he was called up 2.61 ERA 83 IP 76 K 25 BB 1.21 WHIP. His stuff is less than impressive with a high 80s fastball, slurvy curve and less than impressive change up but he's survived thus far on pitchability.

Corpus Christi Hooks Kyle Greenwalt
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NW Arkansas Naturals Edgar Osuna

Osuna could have a ceiling for AA as he had a solid season at that level last season but was knocked around when promoted to AAA Omaha. Osuna has a plus change up but he combines with a below average fastball which hitters can sit on at upper levels. Osuna will likely be the odd man out if a pitcher pushes their way to the AA level.

Greenwalt had a solid stint in the Arizona Fall league not allowing a HR in 15 innings which is no small accomplishment considering the light air in Arizona. He didn't have that type of success in the Cal league last season but scouts like his mix of pitches which includes plus change up and slider to go with an average fastball (89-91 touches 93).

Omaha Storm Chasers Everett Teaford
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Round Rock Express (Rangers)Derek Hankins

Teaford had a breakout season last year at AA striking out 113 in 99 innings while allowing a 1.214 WHIP. Teaford was given an opportunity to make the big league squad in spring training but was knocked around in Arizona to the tune of 11 ER in 4.1 iP while surrendering 14 hits. Teaford also got knocked around in his one AAA start last season in Albuquerque allowing 7 runs over 4.2 innings. He'll need to show he can get upper level hitters out this season to be given another big league shot.

Hankins was picked up by the Rangers from the Pirates organization. He's roster filler at this point in his career as a 2004 MLB draftee that has yet to break the major leagues. He features a fastball, curve and change up none of which are plus.

Futures Game Video

Click on the line below to see video.
Mike Moustakas singles off John Lamb

Johnny Giavotella good play on a groundout on the shortstop side of second base.

Mike Montgomery Ks Wil Myers on a 96 mph fastball

Danny Duffy K's Christian Colon

Wil Myers doubles off Louis Coleman

David Lough HR off of Chris Dwyer

If you are interested to see more head over to my Youtube Channel kcscoliny. I'll post pics of the event within a couple days.

The Royals look into the future and past to start the season

Typically a couple days away allows me to come down from excitement and not overreact to what I've seen as I never want to overreact or cloud my judgement but when it comes to Mike Montgomery I just can't seem to pace myself. I've seen him twice this spring once versus the Cincinnati Reds and then again in the Futures game and he's been lights out both times. 8 innings 2 hits 2 walks 7 K's and 1 run allowed during that time. On Saturday he sailed through a pretty solid AA lineup working 91-93 pretty consistently while blowing away Wil Myers in the 1st inning with a 96 mph fastball. He featured the fastball so there wasn't many changes or curves thrown to report on I'll sure I get to see many more of those as the season goes on but from what I've seen so far he definitely has the makings of a #1 who I think we'll see in KC before the year ends.

Johnny Giavotella vs Christian Colon - This is a rivalry that should be fun to watch all season long, Colon hasn't excited me defensively at SS and while I didn't expect him to I'm unsure if his defense is good enough at 2b to eclipse Gio's offense. Giavotella is patient, knows his offensive limitations and is a good enough baserunner that he might be a difficult hurdle for the higher drafted Colon to get over. Giavotella looked much better on defense during the Futures game than I've seen him in the past making a good turn on a double play and making a jumping throw from the SS side of second base. Giavotella is never going to be an All Star second baseman but he has the chance to have a plus bat along with at his peak a average glove. I overheard some Royals scouts getting excited by Giavotella's play.

Danny Duffy - Looked alot like the pitcher we've seen most of the spring showing a low to mid 90s fastball with some shaky control (walked 3). Duffy only gave up one hit an infield single which was quickly erased by a double play. In the second inning when Mario Lisson reached via a walk Duffy was a little too deliberate to the plate allowing Lisson to get a extremely good jump and stealing second base but Duffy made up for that mistake by freezing #4 overall pick Christian Colon with a 77 mph bender. Duffy essentially got five outs in his third inning of work striking out three despite having to work an extra couple batters due to a Moustakas error at third and a Falu error at short.

Other pitchers - John Lamb's velocity was far from exciting throwing anywhere from 86-89 while touching 91 with his fastball but he gutted his way thru 2.2 innings giving up just one run on three hits. Lamb gutted out his effort by picking off Lorenzo Cain and allowing only a couple hard hit balls. The early muscle problems should be good for Lamb a little bit of adversity to overcome when not at 100%. Brandon Sisk only got to face one hitter (Moustakas) but he tied him up with a 90-91 mph fastball and two solid change ups, four pitches and a K against a premiere prospect, not bad. Chris Dwyer again like Lamb wasn't as impressive as I had hoped in the the velocity department working in 89-91 range while exhibiting some iffy control (3 walks). The AA pitchers fell victim to some poor defense behind them which could've lead to some of Dwyer's troubles trying to be too fine. One pitcher who didn't disappoint was Will Smith who despite giving up a in the park HR on a misplayed ball in LF worked quickly while touching 93 a couple times with his FB. One nice sequence for Smith was against David Lough starting him off with a couple low 90s FB, a 93 mph FB and then freezing Lough with a 76 mph deuce for strike three. Patrick Keating was disappointing to me as he was throwing in the low 90's which is quite a bit off from where scouting reports had him last season.

Mike Moustakas and Eric Hosmer - Neither player stood out with their results although Moose hit several balls hard. Hos on the otherhand seemed a bit impatient which is to be expected playing in the major league park in game action for the first time. The pair finished a combined 1-12 at the plate while Moustakas had a ball go right thru the wickets on defense leading to a Naturals run. Hosmer looked good on defense making all the plays in his area while also making a nice pick of a Van Stratten hard hit near the line.

Wil Myers- Myers had a tough start to the game turning a Hosmer flyball into a circus catch in RF while striking out 2 of his first 3 times at the plate. He settled on defense however making some routine plays and looks as if he'll be fine in RF. He also lined a pitch from Louis Coleman down the third base line for a double, that's a good sign as I expect Coleman will be extremely tough on righty's in the bigs with his arm angle and start from the extreme right side of the pitching rubber.

Other notes- David Lough and Jamie Romak hit the only Home Runs off the arms of Chris Dwyer and Blake Wood. Wood was throwing in the low 90s as opposed to the upper 90s like some had reported during spring training. I'll watch the guns closely in Omaha to see if that is the case once the AAA season starts.

MVP Mike Montgomery
Offensive MVP Johnny Giavotella 1-3 2-BB 1-2b

Royals announced a minor league deal with Jeff Suppan today. Suppan started for four seasons with the Royals compiling 132 starts and 832 innings over a 4 year period from 1999-2002. This is a decent little low risk deal for a ML veteran, if a couple injuries would take place the Royals could bring up Suppan to take over in the rotation as opposed to rushing Duffy or Montgomery to KC.

NEXT UP Pics and Video of the Futures game
Omaha Storm Chasers Workout Wednesday at the new Werner Park

How the Omaha Roster is shaping up

Royals optioned Manny Pina, Greg Holland and Blake Wood while assigning Mike Montgomery to AAA Omaha. Montgomery wasn't a guy I projected in the Omaha rotation but it appears the Royals believe he is ready to go which adds intrigue to a stout Omaha rotation and potential roster.

Here is what is headed to Omaha currently next to what I predicted early this year.

Projection vs What I thought previously
Mike Montgomery - Didn't have him on the breakdown
Danny Duffy - 50/50
Everett Teaford - Very Likely

Relief
Blake Wood - KC
Greg Holland - KC
Blaine Hardy - Very Likely
Brandon Sisk - Very Likely
Jesse Chavez - Very Likely

C Manny Pina - Lock
1b Eric Hosmer - 50/50
1b/DH Clint Robinson - Lock
2b Johnny Giavotella - Lock
3b Mike Moustakas - Lock
LF David Lough - Very Likely

We've yet to see how the Outfield, Middle Infield and the rest of the rotation and bullpen will breakdown but it appears Omaha will have the most talented roster it has had in a long time.

More Videos

Brett Eibner
Eibner 2nd Video

Mike Moustakas
Moose 2nd video

Johnny Giavotella
Johnny 2nd Video

Eric Hosmer

David Lough

Jeremy Jeffress

Danny Duffy

Spring Training Quote of the Day

“It was the first time. The next time will be better, for sure.”

-- Royals lefty Danny Duffy, who could have been speaking for several pitchers.

This is the idea to take away from spring training with so many young players in camp. The lefties Danny Duffy, Chris Dwyer, Everett Teaford and Blaine Hardy took a bit of beating today which is going to happen during the spring. Fortunately the lefty bats of Moustakas and Hosmer did their own damage. Take all these results with a grain of salt and pay attention more to the pitchf/x than the results.

The good
Danny Duffy was throwing 92-94 according to pitchf/x
Mike Moustakas hit a HR off a lefty and drew a walk
No defensive errors in two games

Next
Mike Montgomery throws tomorrow along with Aaron Crow and Luke Hochevar. If there is a young pitcher that could force his way into the rotation by midseason it will likely be either Crow or Montgomery.

Super 2 arbitration with the Royals

Comments made by Dayton Moore make it seem like the Royals aren't afraid of Super 2 arbitration on any of their prospects. He's clued in that Moustakas will be going to AAA to get more at bats Hosmer will be joining him and could push that issue on the Royals sooner than later. While Moustakas is only 12 days away from saving that sixth season of free agency for KC he is also only a couple months from saving this season entirely so while it is the smart move to make him play in Omaha until June to save that Super 2 money, there is another scenario that the Royals may want to consider for any prospect they deem is valuable and ready. That is to sign them to an extension sooner rather than later, ala Evan Longoria.



Andrew Friedman and Evan Longoria set this precedent a few years ago and it has paid major dividends for the Rays. Longoria on April 18, 2008 signed a 6 year $17.5M extension with club options of 7.5, 11 and 11.5M in years 2014-16 just six days after his major league debut. Considering Longoria had only played in six major league games there was plenty of risk taken on by the Rays but weighing that risk against what they are going to pay him for his prime years shows you it was a risk well worth taking. Not only are they saving money in his arbitration years(13M over 3 years) they are saving huge during his free agency years. Then enter the likelihood that Evan wouldn't have signed with the Rays at all if he would've made it to free agency due to the bidding going over what they could afford and you can really see why this was a intelligent decision.

Every player is different and some are more eager for security than others but I bet most players would have a hard time turning down this type of deal only 6 days into their career. Not only does it assure them of plenty of money regardless of success, it also undoubtedly offers them more chances than a normal player if they should struggle because of the weight of the money.

For a small market club like the Rays or Royals a deal like this isn't going to cripple them if it fails but it pays huge when successful. There is also a middle ground where the player doesn't reach Longoria heights and makes it worth close to what his value is so it isn't just a hit or miss. Moustakas plays a more valuable defensive position than Hos so he can offset this risk by playing average defense making the move a little less risky.

Should the Royals make this type of offer to Moustakas, Hosmer or any position prospect that is high profile and ready? Would they be interested? Both Hos and Moose are represented by Scott Boras who in most cases wants his players to go to free agency and would probably be pretty persuasive in not signing a longterm deal if either player would enjoy early success so this type of offer could be the only way KC can ink them longterm. Scott's past Royal players haven't been eager to sign extensions prior to becoming free agents. Off the top of my head Robinson Cano appears to be the only client of his I can remember signing early and of course he plays for the richest and most successful team in the league.

Whether you like this idea or not this could be the only way KC can lock up two key pieces for more than a six year stay in Kansas City.

Pic via Around the Horn in KC blog

JJ and the 10 Royal dwarfs

Since GMDM was hired in 2006 he said that the Royals success would hinge on drafting and developing players, thus the day of following Royals prospects was reintroduced for the first time since the days of Dee Brown.

For folks like myself who love to follow these Royals and minor league games there is one day every year that is bigger than Christmas, of course it's the newest release of Baseball America's Prospect Handbook, the most in depth coverage of minor league players by organization in the business. And while I've read past BA Handbook's, since the '08 draft the Handbook's arrival has become a bigger and bigger deal every year since I actually use it while I try to learn about players at minor league games and try to interact with scouts.

Since that 2008 draft class BA has had one consistent writer cover their system and has had 10 prospects that have appeared in the books the past three seasons. I thought it would be interesting to interpret what JJ Cooper thought each year and see if much had changed in their game along the way.

2009-11
Mike Moustakas #1, 4, 3
Eric Hosmer #2, 5, 1
Mike Montgomery #4, 1, 5
Tim Melville #5, 6, 14
Danny Duffy #6, 8, 7
Johnny Giavotella #11, 16, 18
Kelvin Herrera #12, 18, 30
David Lough #15, 10, 25
Derrick Robinson #16, 22, 26
Salvador Perez #19, 20, 17

Mike Moustakas
'09
Power 70
Makes consistent contact and should hit for average.
Can turn on any fastball but can get pull conscious
Needs to recognize breaking balls better
Lacks athleticism and will have to work on first step quickness.
Above average arm
'10
Two above average tools Raw Power and Arm strength
Too pull happy
Footwork raw and thick body
Good hand eye coordination and quick wrist
Struggled to adjust to offspeed stuff early in the count.
'11
Plus Plus power
Excellent bat speed that allows him to drive balls to any field
Uncanny contact ability
Below average runner
Better approach
Defense
Above average arm
Average first step quickness
Average hands
Mechanics lacked consistency

The Constant- Plus plus power, excellent bat speed, plus arm,doesn't walk, great contact ability, below avg runner
Improvements- First step, improved approach
What GMDM said- GMDM mentioned that they've discussed with Moose and other prospects that they need to be patient at the plate. This is big because Moose is not going to be a big strikeout guy as JJ pointed out he has an uncanny ability to make contact. If he is in positive count situations his ridiculous power will dominate. His power will touch parts of the K that haven't been seen by many Royals and his hard hit balls will allow him to carry a solid average which will help Royals fans forget he is only walking 6% of the time.
My opinion-I like to compare his game to two Brewers he'll either be Casey McGehee, as I just can't see a real low failure rate with an outside shot of becoming a Ryan Braun type peak.

Eric Hosmer
'09 Handbook-
Big time Raw power and bat speed
Ability to go the opposite way.
Soft hands with good athleticism
Enough athleticism to play OF
Very good arm
Needs a better gameplan at the plate
'10
Offense- Outstanding raw power, struggled w/pitch recognition(possibly due to eyes), below average speed
Defense- Plus Arm, average defender, less athletic than advertised w/heavy feet.
'11
Offense-Uses the opposite field, Bat speed to turn on pitches and drive them out the opposite way. Lasik improved his eyesight which led to better results, Below average runner
Defense- Plus arm, showed increased agility and good range w/ability to occasionally play OF.

The Constant- Plus Arm, uses the opposite field, outstanding raw power
The Improvement- His eyes and agility and range
Look ahead- As pointed out by others Hosmer's breakout 2010 was similar to what Billy Butler did for his minor leaguer career (Hos .977 OPS v. Butler's career .978 OPS). Hos initially could be very similar to Billy when he arrives at the K but should have more projection longterm as he adds more strength to that big frame.

Mike Montgomery
'09
Fastball 90-92 touches 95 with plenty of life on the fastball.
Changeup-80 mph changeup already rates average and could become an outpitch.
Curve-Palm curve puts little stress on arm. Can spin a breaking ball
Makeup- Extremely competitive
'10
FB sits 90-92 while touching 94-95.
Curve- Switched to traditional downward curve grades as slightly above avg when he stays on top of it.
Changeup- shows flashes of being a plus pitch.
Mechanics- Solid, able to repeat delivery, excellent arm spped
'11
FB sits 91-93 and can run it up to 95-96.
CB Benched the palmball, Throws above avg curve 74-76 He is still learning to locate it however.
Change- Plus pitch w/late fade and excellent arm spped
His mechanics are solid.

The Constant- FB Velocity, solid mechanics, competitive
Improvements- Changeup and Curve have both improved flashing plus
My opinion- An arm problem kept Montgomery from possibly taking the top minor league pitching honors last season. His drive and stuff could push the Royals to a callup this season and will take over the void left by Zack in a couple seasons.


Tim Melville '09
FB 91-95
Curve Plus Curve
Changeup- Adequate
Other- Plenty of athleticism and repeats his free and easy delivery so he has no trouble throwing strikes. Needs consistency w/ curve and changeup.
'10
FB sits 92-93 touches 95.
CB True 12-6 downer, plus pitch when he can command it.
Changeup Lacks conviction w/this pitch
Other- Has to work on keeping delivery in sync and tends to lose tempo. Inconsistent mechanics, adequate athleticism and clean arm action w/durable build.
'11
FB-91-93 mph Fb that touches 96 with good downhill plane.
CB-12-6 curveball can be a plus pitch
Changeup- Improving can stay up in zone when he loses proper mechanics
Other-Inconsistent tempo and slow down delivery = problems w/control. Tends to nibble on the corners too much and curve loses tightness when mechanics are off.

The Constant- Most things seem consistent.
The Change- With no fault of JJ's Melville went from his draft year being a solid no problem mechanics guy to the last two seasons being a struggling control/mechanics guys.
Other- Melville is less athletic than some of the other Royals pitchers and almost more robotic but still is young and has a nice ceiling. He'll be one of the guys I definitely try to get alot of video of at Spring training.

Danny Duffy
'09
FB sits 88-92 and touches 94.
Curve plus pitch at times
his changeup rates as slightly above average.
Rarely has the feel for both secondary pitches on the same day. August shutdown w/shoulder discomfort
'10 Fastball
88-92 on a good downward plane.
His curve is slow and big breaking which is a good complement to his fastball allowing it to play up.
Changeup got better but he still hasn't fully embraced it.
Other-Motion has improved but still throws across his body. Good at messing w/hitters timing which lets his stuff play up.
'11
FB was as good as ever touching 95-97 regularly. Paces himself early in gms 90-92 then gets to the mid 90s later.
Changeup is his best secondary pitch although his feel for it wavers it is slightly above average at times.
CB- Slow w/plenty of depth
Other- Probably switch to his slider-Crossfire delivery, gotten better at staying online w/plate. Sidelined in April w/elbow soreness
Elbow injury sidelined him in April

The Constant- Crossfire motion
Improvements- Fastball has popped up anywhere from 5-7 Mph from 2009 BA book. Changeup has improved
Watch out- Twice in three years he's had arm problems.
Other- I've heard for sometime Duffy's best secondary pitch could be the slider the Royals made him bench in the low minors. It concerns me though with his mechanics that a slider might put too much pressure on his arm leading to more arm injuries even if it's the best secondary pitch for his arm motion.

Johnny Giavotella
'09
Offense
Compact swing that allows him to turn on a fastballs and wait on offspeed stuff
Advanced pitch recognition w/good eye
Vulnerable to pitches on outerhalf
Defense
Overall 45
Improved hands on double play exchange
Lacks range to his right
'10
Good knowledge of strikezone
Short stroke adequate power
Defense
Played like a below-average defender
Range to his right was poor
Slower first step and shoddy footwork
Above average arm
Other-Took bad at bats into the field
'11
Offense
Gap to gap power
Good awareness of strikezone
Defense
Improved agility
Range still leaves something to be desired especially on balls up the middle
His arm is good and improved at turning the Double play

The Constant- Quick short swing, gap power, below avg defense, poor range up the middle
Improvements- agility improving



Kelvin Herrera
'09
FB- 91-92 touches 95
Curve- slurvy w/command for his age
Changeup- Solid w/ command for his age
'10
Injured due to overcompensating for a change in his landing.
'11
Injured elbow problems caused by his landing
Returned at instructs
FB Low 90s touching 95
Curve- Average/slurvy
Changeup Potential plus pitch

The Constant- Everything is the same due to injuries
My Opinion- Kelvin has an electric arm and has been one of my off the top prospect faves for sometime now but a move to the bullpen is probably needed unless his landing has been changed and is completely comfortable to him. His injury probs should temper some enthusiasm on Yordano Ventura who is jumping toward the Top 10 of most Royals prospects charts at 5'10 with a high 90s fastball.

David Lough
2009
Raw Power
Plus speed
Avg in CF
Below Avg Arm
2010
Above avg speed
Lack of weakness
Arm tick below avg
2011
Quick stroke=double power
Solid on base ability
Above average speed
So so reads on balls
Avg CF
Below avg arm

The Constant- Avg tools, below avg arm, above avg speed, lack of weaknesses
The New- Solid on base ability
My Opinion- JJ mentioned in the '11 book that Lough is probably a 4th OF. I think this is misplaying his skillset, David's 2nd half on base ability if developed could lead him to a DDJ type career in my opinion. I've always been a huge Lough fan and believe in his skillset very much and a lack of corner outfielders at the upper levels will give him a opportunity this year if he can take advantage of it.

Derrick Robinson
'09
3.8-3.9 sec speed from leftside
Left-handed swing looks unnatural
Improved pitch recognition
Doesn't read pitchers moves well
Defense
Speed to run balls down
Arm a tick below average
'10
Offense
Movement of feet allows him to get bat thru left stance faster
Posted sub 4.0 times to first after switch in stance
Defense
Speed allows him to play above avg CF
Arm Fring-average
'11
Offense
70-75 speed on a 20-80 scale.
Gets thrown out stealing too often for his speed
Very little power
Defense
Poor jumps at times
Plus defender in CF
Arm Below average

The Constant- Plus defense in CF, 70 speed, doesn't get good read on pitchers, little power
Improvement(s)- Left handed swing
Not looking good- Arm strength, Jumps on hit balls,


Salvador Perez-
'09
Offense- Bat spweed improving but swing path is long due to long arms
Defense
Sets a good target, soft hands, decent job at blocking balls
Arm is 55 on the scale plays up due to quick exchanges
'10
Offense- Gap to gap power
Lacks athleticism and projection
Defense
Tick above average arm
Receives ball well, handles pitchers like a veteran
'11
Gap to gap power
Consistent contact
25 grade speed
Defense
Slightly above average arm
Good job framing pitches
Handles velocity and calls a good game

The Constant- Defense Receives ball, handles pitchers, above average arm, gap to gap power
Improvement(s)- Improved contact
On the downswing- Speed

6 Future Royals land on MLB Top 50

Good signs of the future as 6 Royal minor leaguers ended up on the Top 50 list.

Players and possible starting point and draft pick
#7 overall Mike Moustakas Omaha Storm Chasers 2007 #2 overall pick
#8 Eric Hosmer Omaha Storm Chasers 2008 #3 Overall pick
#14 Mike Montgomery NW Arkansas Naturals 2008 Supplemental pick
#16 Wil Myers NW Arkansas Naturals 2009 3rd Round pick
#34 John Lamb NW Arkansas Naturals 2008 5th Round pick
#37 Jake Odorizzi Wilmington Blue Rocks Aquired in the Zack Greinke trade

This is a sign of how far GMDM has taken the minor league system in a short time. Guys like Danny Duffy, Chris Dwyer, Christian Colon and Aaron Crow were probably not far behind and could also be heard of not too far down the road.

14 for 77 Royal Minor League Player of the Year

It was a tough year to come up with a Royal minor league player of the year with so many outstanding performances. It started with Mike Montgomery and Eric Hosmer taking over Wilmington from the start of the year. Soon Mike Moustakas would get healthy and start his obliteration of minor league pitching on his way to a ton of Home Runs and extra base hits. John Lamb, Chris Dwyer and Wil Myers would all start to get take over in May and zoom thru levels of competition while Danny Duffy wouldn't be far behind. As the season wore on the pitchers either got challenged by injuries or extra levels as their production slowed. Myers, Moose and Hos excelled as they all got promoted a level and while Hosmer was probably the leader 3/4 of the way thru he gets a slight notch against him as his promotion probably helped his numbers more than the other two. That leaves Moose and Myers as my finalist.

Moustakas 35 Home Runs jumps off the page as do his 74 extra base hits compared to 65 strikeouts but in the end he played in two pretty decent hitting environments.

My Royal Minor League Player of the Year is Wil Myers. Wil put up a .916 OPS in two and a half months of the Midwest league as a 19 year old. He also hit 10 HRs in 239 ABs, at that pace he probably would have bested Moustakas 22 at the same level when he was 19. Myers then promoted to Wilmington a very difficult park on right-handers and a difficult hitting level in general. Wilmington was the same level that ate Hosmer and Moustakas up in 2009 but Myers would dominate with the bat from the moment he arrived. Absent of more HRs one can say nothing about Myers game other than he struggles behind the plate. Neither Moustakas or Hosmer are above average defenders so Myers difficulty behind the plate isn't that big of a hit against his season considering he is playing a more difficult position in general. At only 19 years old for him to have the type of year he has had at the two most difficult hitting environments in the Royals minor league system Myers has done enough to be my minor league player of the year.

Revising The Top 20

Rk/ Name/ Current Age Where they will start next season

#1 Wil Myers 19- I've touted him as the possible #1 player in the system but held off off on changing the rankings until now. Still only 19 he's the best hitter in the system and I really don't think it's close his combo of power and patience to all fields will be too much for opponents at every level. I like Hos and Moose and think they'll make an impact but Myers is the real deal and IMO will become the best player to where Royal blue since Carlos Beltran. Myers should push for a September callup next season if his defense just gets a tad better and will join Hos and Moose in KC by 2012. No matter what happens with the rest of this list get ready to be excited about Wil Myers. 2011-NW Arkansas

Myers in Burlington video

#2 Eric Hosmer 20- The Hos has stepped up his game at AA leaving the cavernous spaces of Frawley Field and turning those doubles into Home Runs. The Hos has hit 8 of them since his promotion and unlike Moustakas did crushing the ball on the road as well as home(.909 Rd OPS). He'll join Moustakas at AAA next season and should push for a spot in KC next September if Kila doesn't prove to be a DH/1b type. I think it's a little early to talk about trading Billy in favor of Hosmer but the fact that the discussion can take place is a good sign for KC. 2011-Omaha

#3 Mike Montgomery 21- Throws mid 90s has a solid breaking ball and an above average change up in the future. He and Lamb both love to compete and go at hitters still a little question as neither have had to pitch in hitters environments for a full season yet but Monty has handled Arkansas well when he's been healthy enough to pitch. 2011-Omaha

#4 Mike Moustakas 21- He's struggled at AAA so far but has flashed the power that makes him a top prospect. I've heard a fan toss out Ryan Braun comps but I don't think he'll hit for that kind of average as his splits are too dramatic. JJ said Moose is going to play winter ball which is a good thing because he needs to refine his approach at the plate. He swings at too many pitches and makes contact too easily leading to some weak contact which shouldn't happen for a player with true 75 power. 2011-Omaha

Moose in Omaha

#5 John Lamb 20- Breezed thru two levels of the minor leagues without using one of his breaking balls hopefully adding the slider to his bag of tricks will have him build even more on his success. 2011-NW Arkansas

#6 Chrisitan Colon 21- In the middle of four lefties. The 2010 first round pick is playing in tough territory for a right hand hitter but is said to be a safe bet to be at least a average major league player. 2011-NW Arkansas

#7 Chris Dwyer 22- Has been lights out and the control has been much better than anticipated. His last start was probably due to the bad back but it's something to watch. If he continues to pitch the way he has this season he and Myers picks will lessen the blow that could be Crow. 2011-Omaha

#8 Danny Duffy 21- I'm going to leave him here despite BA reporting he is touching 97 while regularly pitching 93 to 94. Duffy already has a solid curve, can change speeds with his fastball and is said to have a solid slider that he hasn't got a chance to use. As good as Lamb and Montgomery have been if Duffy's velocity has increased this much he might be the best of the bunch. 2011-Omaha

#9 Cheslor Cuthbert 17- This kid can flat out hit, period. Only 17 and performing in the 3 hole in Idaho Falls. He'll fly up these charts next season if he can handle the Midwest league at only 18 years old. He and Myers mark my words will be the Top 2 prospect by the end of the season next year if Hos and Moose are both in KC. A GREAT FIND by the Royals international crew !!! 2011-Burlington

#10 Aaron Crow 23- Demotion to Wilmington, Crow is showing the signs that he might be a reliever at his peak. 2011-NW Arkansas

#11 Louis Coleman 24- The sample size is small with only 94+ IP but his numbers versus lefties is better than righties which is a good sign that he'll be more than just a Righty v. Righty guy. Like Collins he could be part of a solid Royals pen in the future. 2011-KC

#12 Tim Collins 20- Power throwing lefty via the Braves getting sent to Omaha. If he maintains the 13+ K/9 and 2.46 FIP he won't be on this list long. 2011-KC

#13 Tim Melville 20- Up and down season for Melville just when you think he has it he loses it. On the 7 day DL but should be back pretty quickly. Still only 20 years old which is still young for High A. 2011-Wilmington

#14 Tyler Sample- 21- Prior to his last start Sample had been outstanding in June and July with a sub 3 ERA and averaging a K per inning. The walk total is still too high at 5.60 BB/9 but he is showing glimpses of being more than just a future reliever. 2011-Wilmington

Sample in Burlington

#15 Salvador Perez 20- The backstop is young at only 20 years of age. A solid defensive backstop who is slowly getting better with the stick. Pretty impressive he's been able to hang in High A though at such a young age. 2011-NW Arkansas

#16 David Lough 24- A big dip from me as I was really high on him to start the season. He should be in CF to max his value but learning to be more patient at the plate which should only help him in the long run. Plenty of tools and should push for playing time in KC next season. 2011-Omaha

Lough in Omaha

#17 Brett Eibner- Should sign later this month

#18 Derrick Robinson 22- His OBP has dipped every month this season not a good sign(.427,.374,.319,.301). 2011-Omaha

#19 Jordan Parraz 26- Big Arm in Right Field who's numbers finally settled in July after having back to back strong months. 2011-Omaha

Parraz HR

#20 Johnny Giavotella 23- Really heated up this month but still questions about his glove. 2011-Omaha

The Future is getting closer than even Dayton Moore could have envisioned prior to the season. Of the guys in the Top 20, seven have been promoted one level while John Lamb has been promoted two levels. That is outstanding results and should lead to a #1 organizational overall ranking by Baseball America and Baseball Prospectus.

UP Next: Video of Mike Moustakas, Tim Collins and Louis Coleman hoping to get video of the Arkansas guys prior to the end of the month.

Hello GMDM 3 days left and the future is getting closer

Rumors- Nothing really, NL West teams were calling on Podsednik but the Padres were said to not be a good fit. The Giants don't need him as they have plenty of lefty bats and some speed in the outfield they are much more likely to get Cantu and perhaps Guillen as a consolation prize. The Rockies are 8 games back which means they are closer to becoming sellers than buyers. That leaves the Dodgers who currently have Garrett Anderson hitting .183, Andre Ethier and Matt Kemp but also have Manny on a rehab assignment. Perhaps only being 5 games back they would be interested in Pods and as Royal fans the Dodgers are definitely the team we want interested in a player. The McCourts are cash strapped and have given away good young controllable talent for mediocre major league players (Carlos Santana for Casey Blake). I just don't see it though I hope I'm wrong but with the way Gordon has looked in the outfield since getting called up and Podsednik's decent season I just see GMDM looking more and more at exercising Pods option, I hope I'm wrong though.

Farnsworth sore leg is another sign of the bad Karma KC is continuously dealing with. Of course it couldn't be Guillen getting injured it had to be Farnsworth and DDJ who could yield some good young players instead Guillen will flash his immobility in the outfield no one will come a calling and then KC will try to get someone to bite after clearing waivers and unless Kenny Williams doesn't grab someone for that DH spot I doubt anyone will. Glass is such a penny pincher and looking to unload this team that they won't outright release him giving him the job thru September and yet again blocking Kila from getting a real audition.

Down in the Minors it appears John Lamb and Danny Duffy has been promoted to NW Arkansas where they'll join Aaron Crow and Chris Dwyer in the rotation. What a rotation if Mike Montgomery joins them later this season I would have to believe that is the most stacked minor league rotation in quite sometime. Let’s take a look at where everyone is currently


Mike Moustakas- Omaha Royals
Mike Montgomery- Arizona Royals rehab assignment
Eric Hosmer- NW Arkansas
Wil Myers- Wilmington
John Lamb- NW Arkansas
Christian Colon- Wilmington
Chris Dwyer- NW Arkansas
Danny Duffy- NW Arkansas
Aaron Crow- NW Arkansas
David Lough- Omaha
Louis Coleman- Omaha
Tim Melville- Wilmington
Kila Ka'aihue- Omaha
Salvador Perez- Wilmington
Tyler Sample- Burlington
Jordan Parraz- Omaha
Cheslor Cuthbert- Idaho Falls
Derrick Robinson- NW Arkansas
Tim Smith- NW Arkansas
Johnny Giavotella- NW Arkansas

That's 12 of my Top 20 in the Upper two levels of the minors and that's not including Mike Montgomery on a rehab assignment. The Future is coming and it's starting to really pound on that door. While I don't believe GMDM should rush these guys he needs to look at what he has and start adding to it because there is going to be some failures on this list and passing on deals for Podsednik, Farnsworth, Soria or anyone else on this failing major league roster is a plan to fail in 2012 when some of these guys are here to play and stay.

ORoyals video and Soria rumor pops up again 5 days left

I've attended the last three ORoyals games a doubleheader Sunday and the afternoon game Monday. Quick thoughts on a few guys

Jarrod Dyson- Only got to see him show off the wheels once as he stole a base Monday afternoon but he showed a good arm in center when he would've had Morrison on a close play at the plate had Pina hung on to the ball. Looked alright at the plate as one could expect a couple line drives with not much pop.

Dyson single

David Lough- The usual solid performance from David played solid defense in left while becoming a bit more patient at the plate. His bat is as quick thru the zone as any Royal minor leaguer in the system and despite his size provides nice pop. David's BABIP is attrocious this month(.132 comin into today) but even with that he is carrying a .368 OBP his highest of any month this season and has drawn 9 more walks(19/10) than he did in April-June. If he can build on his last 10 games .257/.386/.514 and the solid approach KC has a solid ML CF/4th OF, in the mold of Brett Gardner with a tick less speed but a tick more pop.

David Lough Groundout
David Lough Forceout

Mike Moustakas- I don't think we'll have to worry about groundouts to second ala Alex because I didn't see him hit a ball on the ground during the three game set but unfortunately I didn't see him square up a ball either. He seems to be taking every first pitch which at the triple A level probably isn't the best approach as the pitchers are savvy enough to feed him offspeed pitches when he is down in the count and get him out with pitches out of the zone which is exactly what happened in the three games I saw. Quite a few popouts and a couple he hit on the button at people. Defensively he didn't get many chances other than a tailor made 5-3 double play he turned. I think AAA is a good challenge to Mike and it'll be a good challenge to him and force him to start hitting down in the count.

Mike Moustakas flyout to CF
Mike Moustakas strikes out swinging

Kila Ka'aihue and Logan Morrison- As usual Kila is the man was unloading on all swings and knocked out a opposite field HR on Monday. He's patient looks for pitches he can crush in "his zone" and when he sees one there is no wasted swing. Other than Logan Morrison Kila was the best looking hitter on the field and uncoiled on all hit attempts. He has a professional approach everytime and is looking for something he can handle. He never waivers no matter what the count, I wish KCs hitters would do the same unfortunately it probably doesn't matter what Kila does cause GMDM is a moron. As I mentioned Morrison is a total stud who is country strong and combines Kila's approach with a little more raw talent and bat speed. Morrison probably doesn't have Kila's strength but he is a solid gap hitter that could probably be an above average hitter at the ML level within a year or two.

Kila Ks
Logan Morrison Groundout

As you can see with the videos I tagged I had some bad luck with the cam as far as results but I was mostly looking to show off the bat speed of these guys. Video quality is better than yesterday.

Rumor- The latest rumor today was that the Yankees offered Montero as apart of a deal for Soria. Jesus Montero is a lock for pretty much every Top 10 list of prospects in baseball, is a catcher by his current position only and a 20 year old holding his own at AAA, so pretty much there isn't much not to like. In fact Jon Heyman said on MLBNetwork they offered the same package as Cliff Lee to the Royals and they turned it down. If true then GMDM is an idiot an even bigger one than we already thought. So in two days KC has rumors they are interested in Frenchy and turned down a deal for Montero+, if those aren't fireable offenses then I don't know what are. The Royals are said to want more pitching, why? They have quite a bit of pitching in the system already how much do they need, yes they are going to deal with some prospect failures but come on they already have more pitching in the minors than any other team in the bigs. They need the best talent made available to them whether that is a stud hitting catcher, outfielder or a centerfielder. GMDM should be doing nothing but stockpiling talent at all positions not just pitching, does he not realize if he has Montero, Myers and Perez behind the dish at least one is going to fail, one is going to make it and he can deal the other. This guy just doesn't get it. If the Yankees did offer this and GMDM passed well I guess 2012-2014 will probably just turn out to be more of the same.

6 Days left and the new hellish rumor

Before I get to the latest rumor and why I want to stab my eyes out I thought I'd give you a couple video's of Mike Moustakas and Logan Morrison. At the current time you can see the differences in their games as Morrison is a bit more patient although the Royals didn't toss any lefties at him while Mike got the majority of his ABs Sunday versus lefties. I thought I'd have more video but the cam was acting up. Hopefully I'll have some more Monday.

Mike Moustakas single

Logan Morrison Double

Rumor
Royals-Mets swap Kyle Farnsworth, Jose Guillen, Gil Meche for Oliver Perez, Jeff Franceour and Luis Castillo.

This is a godawful idea in absolutely every way, Perez sucks, Frenchy continues to suck and Castillo might be worse than the other two. It is so bad but almost inevitable as Dayton Moore is such a shitty GM that every time there is a rumor about him liking some shitty ballplayer getting traded to the Royals it goes down. First it was Farny, then Yuni now Frenchy, these rumors all started three years ago and then just when we forget about them boom shit is on the roster.

We fans hated the Farnsworth signing but he has actually pitched himself into being worth something and instead KC is going to ship him out for a worse player than what KC already has on the roster I can't even express how dumb that is to even think about let alone do. They should be trading him for a B or C level prospect not a a crap player like Franceour. This will cement sure victory for GMDM in the crap GM contest. How does Minaya even have the balls to ask for GMDM to take on Perez, Frenchy and Castillo? Oh ya because it's GMDM on the other end of the line, the worlds most ignorant baseball GM. I have praised Dayton for the prospects in the system but when you toss in his ignorant major league moves it is apparent he is nothing more than a scouting director and anything above that is over his skillset.

Hos promoted to AA NW Arkansas 14 days left

Eric Hosmer was promoted from Wilmington to NW Arkansas after last nights game. The Hos who had a rough start to his minor league career being swept up in the Alvarez problem in 2008 and then again with injuries that caused problems with his play has had a major bounce back season so far in 2010. Eric leaves the Carolina league while leading the league in BA, OBP, OPS and doubles and almost a guaranteed League MVP. Expect some of those doubles to turn into home runs as he moves into a better hitting environment playing at NW Arkansas.

It's a little early in the day so MLBTradeRumors aren't bouncing off the wall so I thought I'd take a look at the positional depth in the minor leagues to show what positions the Royals could possibly be looking to fill. The date in paragraphs is the expected possible ETA(if ever) while the players are put in order of talent.

Catcher- Wil Myers (2013), Manny Pina (2011), Salvador Perez (2014)
First Base- Eric Hosmer (2012), Kila Ka'aihue (2010), Clint Robinson (2012)
Second Base- Jeff Bianchi(2012), Johnny Giavotella (2012)
Shortstop- Christian Colon (2012), Jeff Bianchi (2012), Irving Falu (2011)
Third Base- Mike Moustakas (2011)
Corner Outfield- Alex Gordon (2010), Wil Myers (2012), Jordan Parraz (2011), Tim Smith (2012), Paulo Orlando (2012)
Centerfield- Derrick Robinson (2012), David Lough (2011), Jarrod Dyson (2012), Paulo Orlando (2012)
Starting Pitcher- Mike Montgomery (2011 "if healthy"), John Lamb (2013), Chris Dwyer (2012), Danny Duffy (2012), Aaron Crow (2012), Edgar Osuna (2012), Tim Melville (2014)
Relief Pitcher- Louis Coleman (2011), Blaine Hardy (2011) Not listing any other relievers

As you can see I listed Wil Myers twice with a quicker ETA if he is moved to the outfield. Relief pitching is easily replaced and the majority of relief pitchers that make it to the bigs when pitching in that role in the minors is low usually if you can't hack it as a starter in the minors you usually aren't going to hang in any role in the majors. With relief pitchers not included the weakest spots in the system are probably up the middle. Second base is extremely weak with Bianchi's injury problems and Giavotella resembling a light hitting Dan Uggla. KC is fortunate that they have control of Getz and Aviles to man that position even if they do it somewhat poorly. After 2b centerfield appears to be the weakest on the surface with a rejuvenated Derrick Robinson and David Lough as the tops on the list. Speed is the key here with Robinson, Dyson and Orlando but light hitting careers leaves much to be desired. Lough has taken on a new approach his last 10 games drawing 10 walks out of his last 33 plate appearances, a good sign if he can raise that average over .130 during the same span. Lough has the best overall game of the group but might be a platoon partner with Maier only (Maier is also a lefty but hits better vs Lefties). CF represents a large group of longshots and unless Eibner is signed and produces probably the least amount of overall talent.

Royals Minor League Positional Strength.
#1 Starting Pitching
#2 First Base
#3 Third Base
#4 Corner Outfield (moves ahead of Moose if Myers gets moved)
#5 Catcher
#6 Shortstop
#7 Centerfield
#8 Second Base

Hos, Moose and Time to Sell

Eric Hosmer and Mike Moustakas competed in the MLB Futures Game Sunday night and flashed what KC fans hope will be a corner infield of stars. Moustakas struggled at the plate with a pop out and a couple groundouts but flashed the leather with a nice 5-4 Force out and apparently putting on a show in batting practice. While Mike was struggling at the plate during the game Hosmer was putting on a clinic collecting 4 hits in 5 trips including an eighth inning double. Hosmer was doing an outstanding job covering the plate and going the opposite way with the ball. Hos is very advanced in his hitting approach and overall a much more complete hitter than Moose.

With the minor league guys sucking in the attention the big league guys were officially ending their so called chance at contention with a three game beatdown at the hands of the White Sox. Hopefully that three game sweep was the brick that we fans needed to knock some sense into Dayton Moore and get the trading season started in Kansas City. Guillen, Podsednik, Farnsworth and David DeJesus are the pieces that can be moved all for different reasons. Guillen needs to be either moved, benched or cut and very quickly for the sake of the Royals. Kila Ka'aihue is a enigma to fans and the front office, a player with the skillset that most front offices glorify yet that this one doubts. Either way he's hit 46 HRs and walked 203 times in 238 AAA games, he's earned a shot and he's possibly a cheap alternative at the DH position. The only way to find out is give him a 300 AB audition, if GMDM thinks he needs to win he's wrong he needs to find out if he has players prior to the end of this season.

Guillen is the most important piece to be moved while David DeJesus needs time to field offers to weed through good ones and bad ones. With similar types Corie Hart and Nyjer Morgan available, DDJ having a career season and being the best of the group should field some attractive options. Expect a team like the Giants, Padres or maybe even a darkhorse like the Mets to be players in the trade mix for DDJ. I believe the Royals need to bring in a high level talent with some warts (Kyle Blanks, Aaron Cunningham or Fernando Martinez)and another B level prospect ala Jaff Decker or Reese Havens for Davids services. The receiving team wins by getting DeJesus the consumate professional on a fair contract who could bring them back draft picks via Free Agency. It's a big trade for Dayton as he has yet to yield a productive player via trade and while he had the excuse of not having many pieces prior DeJesus is a legitimate big league player who offers value. I'm not expecting him to bring back Carlos Santana via Casey Blake but a whiff like Joey Gathright could cost him his job.

As for Kyle Farnsworth and Scott Podsednik they should be moved for similar reasons as the above. Podsednik is blocking Alex Gordon and needs to be moved to get him some regular big league at bats while Farny has actually built a little value out of the bullpen. I maybe wrong but perhaps Farnsworth could fish a Chris Dickerson out of Cincinnati where he is stuck on the bench behind Drew Stubbs and they are in need of bullpen help. If you have to throw in a Podsednik that wouldn't be too much for me. If not then Pods and Farny should bring back some Manny Pina/Tim Smith types that could help the '12/13 bench.

While Dayton has become the whipping boy for good reason this trade deadline could become the most important time period yet in his career as a general manager.

John Lamb and Mike Moustakas

John Lamb improved his earned run string to 26 IP without allowing an earned run by pitching 5 Innings allowing 3 hits 1 walk while striking out 4 in the Rocks 5-0 win on Friday night July 9.

The Royals gave Mike Moustakas a few days off as he travels to the Futures Game. Its been assumed my most people following the Royals that instead of going back to Northwest Arkansas he'll instead go to Omaha and begin his AAA stint. If true Omaha will be returning home the weekend of July 23rd for a 6 game/4 day stint. I'll be there to capture video and post on the site.

Baseball America rankings

Baseball America just came out with their midseason rankings and the Royals organization had five ranked in their Top 50.

Mike Moustakas #12- Kind of surprised Moose wasn't in the Top 10 but based on his struggles last season and dramatic Home/Road splits it's not without basis. Moose could easily crack the Top 5-10 if he continues to succeed at AAA Omaha after the Futures Game.

Eric Hosmer #13- BA have taken a conservative approach to Hosmer for most of his career ranking him lower than Keith Law most of the time. Hos also could peak into the Top 10 with more power production at AA. He could easily crack the Top 5 for Keith Law with similar AA performance.

Mike Montgomery #18- Monty would've probably been closer to #10-15 if it wasn't for his forearm problems.

John Lamb and Wil Myers 26-50- They didn't rank the 26-50 spots individually but I would think Lamb would be closer to the Top 35 while Myers would be in the Top 50 range. As far as both of them I've been on record that Myers is the most talented overall hitter in the system while Lamb could crack the Top 25 if KC would give him a shot to go and dominate at AA.

This was GMDMs design all along to build through the minor leagues and the draft and at this point one would say it's looking very positive.

NEXT: Video of Omaha Royals Friday 7/9

Anonymous Scouts view

Grant Paulsen of XMs Minors and Majors tweeted a couple of quotes from scouts about Wil Myers and Eric Hosmer after seeing them the other night.

Wil Myers: "Will hit enough to play anywhere. Could end up in RF. Has great power. Not sure he can catch in majors."
This is exactly what many of thought myself included. I think Myers is advanced with his approach and power to actually play with Hosmer the rest of the way meaning if they wanted to promote them both tomorrow Myers bat would be fine, his glove on the other hand is probably still at rookie level. If GMDM thinks the team can compete in 2012 it might be a wise move to move Myers now so he's ready for the jump with Hos, Lamb and company. Teams can easily hide average to below average catchers in comparison to corner outfielders. I don't think GMDM needs to move Myers now but this time next season if he's at AA and his catching hasn't improved significantly the move will probably force itself.

Eric Hosmer: "I don't know if I'm going to file him as a very good big leaguer or as a super star guy. He'll make an ASG."
Wow it sure is nice to even have a guy in the system that is possibly worthy of superstar status and I believe KC has a few of them in the system. Hosmer is showing off more speed and just recently started to ding the Home Run bell a few times. He's ready for the jump to AA and a more friendly hitting park where if his buddy Moose's HR increase shows anything then Hos with his patience and overall hitting approach will be just as dominant. His athleticism and hitting approach and talent have scouts and Royal fans alike thanking GMDM for taking Eric over Gordon Beckham, a decision this time last year looked to be very very foolish.