Opening day has finally arrived. Now while this is usually a time filled with hope and optimism, I'm finding it difficult to get excited about the upcoming season. You see, I am a Kansas City Royals fan.
Thing is, most years I can dilute myself into thinking there is legitimate hope. That somehow this year will be different. Sure, if Luke Hochevar and Kyle Davies can somehow win 25 games between them. If Jose Guillen can hit 35 homers. If the relief pitching doesn't implode maybe there is a chance. But not this year.
I'm sorry, but I just can't paint a rosy picture for the upcoming season. I don't see why this is going to be the team that takes a giant leap forward. The biggest offseason signings just don't do anything for me. Scott Podsednik has been replaced for defensive reasons by multiple teams. Jason Kendall has been declining in offensive production for years. And Rick Ankiel has been brought in to add power. It just seems like impending disaster to me.
I know some prognosticators think the AL Central can be won with 85 or so wins. I'm not buying it. Someone is going to win this division with 90+ wins. My fear is it will take only 85 or so wins to take the AL Central and the Royals will finish 8 or 10 games back. Then Royals brass will think they're close. That's my biggest fear. This team won't win until it develops its own players. And even that is looking shakier.
I hope I'm wrong, but I just don't see it. Royals 2010 record: 75-87
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