The Kansas City Royals couldn’t muster up enough run support to defeat the Texas Rangers as they dropped their first spring training game by the score of 6-1.

Billy Butler did well at the plate as he had a single as well as walk to reach base during both of his at bats.

Starter John Bale allowed one run in two innings. He was replaced by Luke Hochevar, who retired six straight hitters. Brian Lawrence gave up two runs in the fifth.

Royals Blog

The Kansas City Royals have said that pitcher Luke Hochevar will start out in the bullpen during Spring Training.  Hochevar was is the #1 draft pick for the Royals and usually a starting pitcher.

The Royals really want a veteran group of starting pitchers this year, and would rather have Hochevar come out of the bullpen.  I think that is a mistake, as Hochevar needs to be in the starting rotation as that is the best place for him.

Also, Brett Tomko will have to pitch very very bad to be taken out of the starting rotation the Kansas City Star is reporting.  Hmm, the Royals would rather keep throwing Tomko out there who is at the end of his career instead of a promising young prospect like Hochevar.  No wonder why the Royals haven’t made the playoffs in how many years…

Royals Blog