Bullpen Implodes Again

Game Date: March 31, 2007
Astros 5, Royals 3 / Box Score
Royals Spring Training Record: 11-18

Okay, I know it’s only Spring Training, but what is the deal with the bullpen blowing yet another game yesterday? This time it was the combination of otherwise steady Ryan Braun and possible closer David Riske (Dotel is nursing an injury). Let’s hope that this isn’t an indication of what’s to come during the regular season. Brandon Duckworth, the newly appointed number five starter, pitched 4.1 innings in his final start of the spring, giving up one earned run on six hits and no walks.

Several Royals had big days at the plate. David DeJesus was 3-for-3. Esteban German was 2-for-2 with an RBI. Reggie Sanders was 1-for-2 with 2 RBI. And Emil Brown as 3-for-4.

Hopefully the guys can put this one behind them and get ready for the beginning of a brutal schedule in April that begins on Monday. Stop back for another post tonight about my thoughts regarding the new season. I’ll make a predication regarding the Royals record, and invite you to do the same.