2007 Royals Projected Lineup

2007 Kansas City Royals

Batting Order

1. CF David DeJesus
2. 2B Mark Grudzielanek*
3. RF Mark Teahen
4. DH Mike Sweeney
5. 1B Ryan Shealy
6. 3B Alex Gordon
7. LF Emil Brown / Reggie Sanders
8. C John Buck / Jason LaRue
9. SS Angel Berroa


On the assumption that super-prospect Gordon can successfully make the jump from Double-A to the majors, Teahen moves to right. Gordon will hit lower in the order for now to ease the pressure, but will soon be a fixture in the No. 3 spot. DeJesus could develop into a Grady Sizemore-type leadoff man, albeit one with slightly less home-run power. Sweeney's health is always a concern, but the emergence of Shealy will ease the pain. LaRue arrives from Cincinnati to give Buck competition behind the plate.

*Mark Grudzielanek had arthroscopic surgery on March 5th to repair a medial meniscus cartilage tear in his left knee, and is out indefinately. Utilityman Esteban German is a good bet to handle the second-base duties while Grudzielanek is sidelined.


Rotation

Gil Meche
Odalis Perez
Luke Hudson

4th & 5th spots up for grabs
Jorge De La Rosa
Brian Bannister
Zach Greinke.

* Scott Elarton is not typically mentioned in the mix, but the rehabbing right-hander could be ready by May 1.

Closer: Octavio Dotel