2007 Kansas City Royals

2007 Kansas City Royals / Franchise: Kansas City Royals / BR Team Page[edit]

Record: 69-93, Finished 5th in AL Central Division (2007 AL)

Coaches: Mike Barnett, Bill Doran, Fred Kendall, Bob McClure, Brian Poldberg and Luis Silverio

History, Comments, Contributions[edit]

The 2007 Kansas City Royals finished in last place but were much improved from the previous three years, when they had finished under .400 each year. The 2007 Royals even moved out of last place for a while, and until the last couple of weeks of the season, it was possible that they would finish above the slumping Chicago White Sox.

Although Kauffman Stadium was a strong hitter's park (with a park factor of 107), it is not known as a good home run park and the Royals were last in the league in home runs with 102. Catcher John Buck led the team with 18, and the only other player with more than ten homers was highly-touted 23-year-old youngster Alex Gordon, with 15 home runs.

Veteran Mark Grudzielanek led the regulars with a .302 average, while Joey Gathright, in 224 at-bats, hit .308. Several players hit over .280, including veteran Ross Gload, youngster Mark Teahen, and well-regarded 21-year-old prospect Billy Butler.

Five players stole between 10 and 14 bases.

None of the starting pitchers had an ERA under 3.60, with Gil Meche's 3.67 the best. The most wins were recorded by 26-year-old Brian Bannister. A number of the relievers had low ERA's, with 23-year-old closer Joakim Soria posting a 2.48 ERA and 17 saves.

2007 was a season when the Royals laid the groundwork for what could be a contender in years to come.