Joe Schulman is the author of a new column in the Kansas City Star about becoming a fan of a new baseball team. He has written for ChopTalk, the Atlanta Braves' magazine. Joe is a freelance writer in Atlanta, and he and his wife, Cady, are avid Braves fans.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
So much for positive thinkingThere are so many good vibes coming from the Royals and their fans, I figure it's time to look at the other side of things. After all, that's what us fans do: We see a glass that's half full and promptly knock it off the counter. Today's the day to vent about anything and everything that worries you about the team.
So here we go. Let's start with the questions first: What do you see as the team's biggest weakness? Can they really compete in such a stout division? Sure the pitching improved, but aren't you at least a little worried about the hitting?
I don't want comments defending the team. I want to hear the worst case scenarios and what really worries you.
First, I think the team's biggest weakness is going to be that division. Every team in the central is going to be good. The ChiSox, Twins and Tigers all have good pitching, and the Indians are looking to finally capitalize on all the young talent on their team. In 162 games, those against the division are going to be important, and they are also going to be really rough.
Also, I'm not sure about the hitting. It's good, but if you're an opposing pitcher, name two guys on this Royals team you just fear when they step in the batter's box. Sure the Royals are looking good on offense, but there's no real BIG threat.
As for starting pitching, we're pinning our hopes to Gil Meche. Let that sink in. Gil Meche. The back of the rotation is pretty shaky. Odalis Perez has yet to win 10(or even 8) games in a single season. Zack Greinke has plenty of hype, but little yet to show for it. Luke Hudson is listed as the number three starter. Other than Meche, any of those names spell confidence for you?
What if this team has a tough April? Can it rebound? With so much money spent in the offseason, will there be any left over for trades and pickups during the season?
There ya go. A completely negative post about the Royals and the 2007 season. So what are your worries now? Don't leave anything on the table. If you have a concern, now's the time to voice it, because this will be the last negative post until the team actually starts showing some problems in April.