Emil Brown won't be back in Royal blue in 2008. The Royals decided to nontender his contract, making him a free agent. Beyond some of the crazy claims Brown made over the past few years, and some of the crazy things he did (remember when he shot a reporter in the eye with a toy dart gun?), perhaps the thing I'll remember most about him happened last year at Kauffman Stadium. I was in attendance when he hit a ball and stood and watched it, thinking it was gone. It hit the left field wall and Brown was thrown out at second base.
Brandon Duckworth signed a one-year deal with the Royals. He was 3-5 last year with a 4.63 ERA. At times last season, he was one of the many relief pitchers for the Royals who produced one of the best bullpens we've seen in Kansas City. Unfortunately, his season ended early when he tore a left oblique.
The Royals also signed Jason Smith to a one-year contract. He showed a little pop (6 HR in 85 AB), but little ability to get on base (.188/.213/.447). Fortunately for him, he's versatile and can play every infield position.
Aaron Rowand signed a five-year, $60 million contract with the San Francisco Giants. I haven't seen his name mentioned by the Royals lately, but at one time he was believed to be on the list of outfielders the Royals were interested in.
Paul Phillips was designated for assignment recently to make room on the 4-man roster for Jose Guillen.
Finally, the Mitchell Report is due out this afternoon and I'll be scanning the list of names, much like you will. One source for ESPN is already saying that Roger Clemens is on the list. And an article on MLB.com cites the Bergen Record as saying "several" prominent Yankees will be named in the report.
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