The Kansas City Shuffle open Season five with high expectations. Coming off of their third World Series appearance in franchise history, the Shuffle look to be an early favorite to return to the top. Anything short of another ring will be considered a disappointment.
Key Additions: Catcher Wascar Aguilar. This two-time gold glove comes over from Fresno and instantly gives the Shuffle some depth at catcher and some much needed pop with his bat. Justin Fyhrie will see time against lefties.
Key Changes: Three-time MVP Nicholas Bryant makes a move from RF to LF to allow room for Bret Kubenka. Taking over at third for Kubenka will be Earl Pritchett. The world's career batting average leader, Tomas Hernandez, moves from 1B to DH to adapt to the new changes involving range. Javy Park takes over at 1B and should excel in the field.
Things to watch: Will this be the season that Bryant gets caught stealing? The 31 year old hasn't been thrown out in his past 265 stolen base attempts. How will two-time Cy Young Award winner Orlando Javier adjust to his move from starter to long relief? This will be Chad Jones' first full season in a KC uniform. Look for the 25 year old right hander to contend for the AL Cy Young.
Prediction: The talent is there. Barring a terrorist attack on the KC locker room, the Shuffle should have no problem cruising in the AL West and probably to a first round bye. From there it's anybody's game, but Kansas City must recognize that the clock is ticking for it's team that is beginning to get a little long in the tooth.
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2 comments:
While I'd love to beat you in the world series -- again -- I'd love even more to not even have to worry about having to play you for 7. Here's hoping Louisville, Fargo or someone else can topple your AL empire this season, haha! Good luck buddy!
by far they are the most complete team, but they are getting old. good luck!
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