Greinke Has Solid Outing

Game Date: March 14, 2007
Royals 6, Rockies 2 / Box Score
Royals Spring Training Record: 7-8

Royals’ fans had lots to be encouraged about yesterday. Zack Greinke finally found a groove and he threw four scoreless innings against the Rockies. And he didn’t walk anybody. He understands that he’s going to have to earn the fifth spot in the rotation—especially in light of how Soria and Bannister have performed this spring.

Octavio Dotel threw another scoreless inning yesterday. He still hasn’t given up an earned run yet this spring. Joel Peralta threw another scoreless inning, and he too has yet to give up an earned run this spring. Jimmy Gobble put up another scoreless inning and lowered his ERA to 2.57. Ken Ray was the only pitcher to get hit hard yesterday. He gave up two earned runs in a third of an inning.

Luke Hudson got some work in a game with Omaha yesterday against Wichita. He threw five scoreless innings, giving up five hits, one walk, and striking out four.

The Mark Teahen and Alex Gordon show continued at the plate. Teahen was 2-for-2 with a home run (his second of the spring), 2 RBI, and a stolen base (his third). Gordon was 2-for-3, bringing his average to .375. And Andres Blanco continues to surprise people at the plate. He was 1-for-4 yesterday and he’s hitting .323.

A few Royals are off to slow starts at the plate this spring. David DeJesus was 0-for-3 yesterday and he lowered his average to .200. He’s a .292 career hitter, and I don’t expect that to change this season. Mike Sweeney was 0-for-4 yesterday and his average is now .231. Spring means absolutely nothing regarding Sweeney. He’s a little behind everybody because of his limited action, but the main thing is to keep him healthy as the regular season begins. Everybody knows that Mike can hit. Emil Brown was 1-for-1 yesterday, bringing his average up to .167. He’ll probably be fine once the season starts, but even if he isn’t, Reggie Sanders could easily take his spot.

The Royals play the Giants this afternoon. Jorge De La Rosa will go against Barry Zito.