Franklin Shuts Down the Royals

Runelvys Hernandez didn't pitch poorly this afternoon in front of 41,788 people--the largest opening day crowd ever at Kauffman Stadium--but Ryan Franklin pitched far better. Franklin only threw 83 pitches (64 of which were strikes) in 8 2/3 innings. He got ahead of nearly every hitter, and he went right after guys. No nibbling. That used to be the standard by which major league pitchers worked. When you see it today, it looks odd.

Kevin Appier threw out the first pitch. I wish he were still on the team, but it's hard to justify keeping a roster spot open for him if Baird really believes that he isn't one of the five best starting pitchers on staff.

"It was great to hear the Kauffman Stadium crowd one last time," Appier said. "It was bittersweet. It was an honor and nice to (throw out the first pitch), but it was a bummer not to do it in a game."

It was a bummer for us too Kevin. Thanks for playing hard for us every time out. You were a blast to watch and your legacy in Royals history is secure. We won't forget you.

Here are a few brief notes about the game today:

• Sweeney picked up two more hits and is now hitting .367…
• Terrence Long was back in the line up and his charlie horse is healed up…
• Mark Teahen has a stiff back and missed another game…Graffanino took his spot in the line up…

Zack Greinke (0-0, 0.00) goes against Aaron Sele (0-0, 6.35) on Wednesday afternoon. Let's hope that Zack can come back strong from his injury.