Some news, notes and analysis from the Kansas City Royals:
- Joakim Soria left Sunday's game because of a sore right elbow after another ineffective outing. The Royals will reevaluate Soria within a couple days, but the team is right to be concerned with their closer's health status. Soris has allowed seven runs and ten hits in 3 1/3 innings this spring.
- Fangraph's Matt Klaassen takes a look candidates for the Royals' closer role if Soria misses extended time. He points out the Royals have a deep enough bullpen to withstand the extended loss of Soria, but wonders why the Royals chose to hold onto their elite closer instead of trading him earlier for a bounty of prospects. After the latest injury, it may be too late to cash in on a trade opportunity.
- Jon Heyman wrote Saturday that the Royals have extended an offer to former All-Star catcher Ivan Rodriguez, but the Royals have since denied the report. Heyman insists that the Royals are saying this because Rodriguez rejected their offer. With Salvador Perez out for three months, the Royals are searching for an answer at catcher.
- Royals Review, the SB Nation Royals fan-site, wonders if Yuniesky Betancourt has become the top candidate for the starting second base gig. Royals manager Ned Yost says it's going to be a "tough call."
- Rustin Dodd of the Kansas City Star takes an in-depth look at future Royals center fielder Lorenzo Cain. Dodd examines how Cain might be an upgrade over Melky Cabrera, and wonders how his defense will play in the majors.
- Check out the Kansas City Royals Complete Organizational Depth Chart before the season starts so you can impress your friends with your extensive knowledge of the most talented young team in baseball. They'll be jealous.